SALEM – Salem State field hockey will begin play this season exclusively in the MASCAC after being an affiliated member of the Little East for the past decade and a half. The Vikings landed in fifth place in the conference pre-season poll as voted on by the league’s six coaches.
FIeld HockeySeason Outlook
Head coach Karen Atkinson begins her second season at the helm and will look to improve upon a 4-12 mark from a year ago. Led by two-time captains and two-time All-LEC midfielders Melanie Mason (Beverly) and Mikayla Mason (Beverly), Salem State returns its two most prolific scorers on offense as the duo combined for 25 points (10g, 5a) a season ago. In addition, captain Stephanie Santorella, who has started 32-of-33 games the past two seasons is back to provide veteran leadership on defense. All three-tri captains are excited about the upcoming season as the team transitions from the Little East to the MASCAC. “Our anticipation for this upcoming season is huge, especially since it’s our last one together. We’re excited to kick off this new league, unite as a new team, and build upon our previous achievements from last year.”
Added assistant coach and former All-LEC goal keeper Kelli McCarthy, “Our expectations are high and we know this team can meet and exceed them. We are ready to make a statement in the MASCAC this year and continue to propel our program forward. We have some key returners and some eager newcomers that intend to make their names known in the conference.”
COACH’S TAKE
“Our returning players understood what we needed to focus on in the off-season in order to grow as a
team and compete at the next level this fall. Our seven incoming players are already meshing well with our returners, and I am looking forward to seeing what they will bring to the table this season. As a collective unit we are looking forward to participating in the MASCAC. We have three captains for this upcoming season. Mikayla Mason, number 3 and Melanie Mason, number 5 are both in their second year as captains. Both have grown tremendously since last season, and I think their leadership qualities are even more impressive. Mikayla will be a true leader on our forward line, while Melanie will lead our midfield. Their presence on the field is something that captivates you.
Stephanie Santorella, number 15, will be leading our defense. Her poise and control on the field has been a beautiful thing to witness. She has grown so much as a player over the years, and she genuinely is a leader on and off the field.
Under their leadership, our hope is to be successful in the MASCAC this season. Our incoming players and returners are the heart of our team. We believe that without everyone’s passion for the team and the game, we wouldn’t be successful.”
SEASON OPENER
Salem State opens the season on the road, September 1 against Lasell @ 11:00 AM.
2023 MASCAC Pre-Season Field Hockey Poll
| Worcester State (4) |
24 |
| Framingham State (1) |
18 |
| Westfield State |
18 |
| Fitchburg State (1) |
