While it was a heartbreaking way to end the 2025 season, returning Sussex Academy field hockey players can look back at last year and know they gave eventual champion Wilmington Friends the biggest challenge in the Division II tournament.

Some major pieces from that team are playing in college now, but the senior class of 2027 has plenty of experience to help a roster of hungry young players meet the challenge of the season.

V no longer stands for victory for the established squad.

“We have a lot of really good talent out there,” coach Caitlyn Hardy said. “The best part about our team this year is the versatility; we've got girls that can play any position, and that's the best part because we can move them around the field.”

Hardy said training has been focused on trying to provide solutions for situations the girls may have to face as the season progresses. Different teams give different looks, and the third-year coach wants her players to be prepared for anything. Thus far, she is happy with her team.

“It's very high-IQ field hockey, and the girls are getting it at such a young age,” Hardy said. “It's amazing, and the capabilities are endless.”

“We have been practicing all over the place,” said senior Liz Layton. “Obviously, we have a really young team. We did have some spots to fill, but they're getting filled pretty well.”

Layton, who plays attack on the lacrosse team, was a stalwart on defense the last few years but is playing midfield this year. She said she believes the defense is in good hands this season despite a few new faces, such as Grier Lawson in goal. Hardy said the sophomore came to her after Kacie Rawlings’ graduation and wanted to secure the job between the pipes.

With Ryan Lowe in college, Layton will be joined by her speedy classmate Meredith Schiff and sophomore Audrey Snyder in the middle. Snyder was under Lowe’s tutelage last season, but it will be a new look for Schiff.

“It's a big adjustment, but I think we're handling it very well,” Schiff said. “We have a lot of new girls, upcoming eighth-graders and freshmen, and they're really doing good and stepping into these roles that we need them to.”

Senior Bailey Mears may not be changing positions, but she will have some new faces flanking her up top following Shea Danahy’s graduation and the injury of Mady Lehman. 

“I have two new forwards right next to me that I haven't been playing with before, so it’s an adjustment for sure, but I like it,” Mears said. “We're just gonna keep building.”

One thing the senior trio has in common is their positive attitudes no matter the situation. Mears, Schiff and Layton can all be seen smiling and encouraging their teammates, whether they are celebrating a goal or making a slight mistake.

“Being positive helps us get through the tough games,” Mears said.

Sussex Academy will open its season at home against Henlopen South foe Woodbridge at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 10.