BRIDGEWATER, Mass. (February 28, 2026) – The Stonehill College women’s hockey team secured a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against Long Island University, punching their ticket to the NEWHA Semifinals. This win isn’t just a game result; it represents a significant step forward for a program continuing its ascent in competitive Division I hockey, and underscores the growing strength of the NEWHA conference as a whole. The Skyhawks’ resilience, demonstrated by overcoming a two-goal deficit and a crucial penalty kill, signals a team peaking at the right time.
- Comeback Kids: Stonehill overcame a two-goal deficit and a strong push from LIU, showcasing mental fortitude and offensive firepower.
- Freshman & Senior Synergy: The contributions from both first-year student Summer Combe and seasoned veterans like Lily Barrett and Eve Stone highlight a successful blend of youth and experience.
- Semifinal Bound: This victory secures Stonehill’s place in the NEWHA Semifinals, continuing their postseason run and offering a valuable opportunity for further development.
The Skyhawks’ early dominance, jumping to a 2-0 lead within the first three minutes, established their intent. However, LIU’s response wasn’t immediate panic, but a calculated shift in momentum. The second period saw the Sharks erase the deficit, demonstrating their own offensive capabilities and forcing Stonehill to dig deep. This game was a microcosm of the NEWHA season – competitive matchups where any team can challenge on a given night. Stonehill’s ability to withstand that pressure, particularly during a critical five-on-three penalty kill, speaks volumes about their defensive structure and senior leadership.
The overtime winner from Seina Spadone, assisted by Combe after a faceoff win by Payton Palsa, was a testament to smart hockey. Winning faceoffs in overtime is often the key to possession and creating scoring chances, and Stonehill executed perfectly. Goaltender Eve Stone’s performance, stopping 35 shots, was also pivotal. Her consistency throughout the season, including her eighth game with 35+ saves, has been a cornerstone of the Skyhawks’ success.
The Forward Look
Stonehill now faces a challenging Semifinal matchup against the winner of the other quarterfinal series. While the specific opponent remains unknown, the Skyhawks will need to maintain this level of intensity and execution. The team’s success hinges on continuing to capitalize on offensive opportunities, maintaining defensive discipline, and relying on Stone’s strong goaltending. A key area to watch will be their power play – converting on special teams could be the difference in a tight semifinal game. Beyond this tournament, Stonehill’s performance this season positions them as a program to watch within the NEWHA. Continued success in recruiting and player development will be crucial as they aim to establish themselves as a consistent contender for the conference championship in the years to come. The NEWHA tournament is known for its unpredictability, and Stonehill’s ability to navigate that chaos will be the defining factor in their postseason journey.
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