MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (Saturday, August 31, 2024)-- Salve Regina University field hockey started the 2024 season with a 3-2 win on home Gaudet Field turf Saturday against nonconference opponent Skidmore College. 

Although Thoroughbreds Catie O'Rourke was the first to strike, putting Skidmore ahead after one quarter of scoreless action Seahawks very own Julia Decker sank an unassisted goal before the first half clock ran out. 

Salve Regina dominated at the net, outshooting the Thoroughbreds 32-12 across 60 minutes. Salve Regina also took a penalty corner advantage with 13 to Skidmore's two. 

"It was a great start to the season," said head coach Jennifer Foster. "They brought great energy in the first half. We really put our game plan into place. There are still some things we need to work on, but we're excited for the next game." 

Georgia Costello was a key contributor on the field with a goal in the third quarter and an assist on Shannon Kennedy's final Seahawk success. 

"The turning point of that game was our bench," said Costello. "The cheering we had was unbelievable. They brought the energy, and it translated onto the field and once we had Julia Decker's first goal it was game over." 

In net for the Seahawks, Bryn Protheroe made seven saves and remained in the action for the entirety of the contest. 

Salve Regina will be home once again on Wednesday, September 4, at 6:30 p.m. against Johnson & Wales University.