ALFRED, NY – The Alfred University field hockey team hosted its first ever home game as a varsity program on Saturday, October 4 and eventually fell to Elmira College in Empire 8 action, 4-0.
 
The Saxons (0-9, 0-4 Empire 8) hosted a pregame ceremony to mark the successful installment of field hockey as AU's 27^th varsity program. During which, captains Annie Smith (Webster, NY/Webster Thomas) and Sydney Angelo (Windsor, NY/Windsor Central) performed a ceremonial center pass and then presented that ball to Alfred University alumnus and generous donor, Carl Dziekan '79. Carl and his wife, Andrea Dziekan were both noted as key supporters of the addition of field hockey at Alfred University and they were joined by President Mark Zupan, Empire 8 Conference Commissioner Chuck Mitrano and Associate Vice President for Student Experience, Athletics & Recreation Deb Steward.

"Despite a tough loss, I'm very proud of the strides this young team has made," Head Coach Adair Milmoe said. "It was a special day with the ceremonial center pass and dignitaries to celebrate our inaugural home game this season."
 
The Soaring Eagles (2-7, 1-4 Empire 8) won their first Empire 8 game since 2018 when they defeated Russell Sage College, 2-1. They scored what would go on to be the game-winning goal in the 13^th minute of play in the first quarter. Elmira added one more goal in the second quarter and two in the third.
 
Molly Howlett (Brockport, NY/Brockport) totaled nine saves in goal while Harper Cutting (Bernardston, MA/Franklin County Technical) added a defensive save. The Saxon defense successfully shut down all 13 penalty corners from the Eagles. Elmira totaled 24 shots with 14 on goal.
 
The Saxons will next travel to SUNY Morrisville for a Monday evening game on October 6 with the start time set for 4:00pm.