The TCNJ field hockey team, ranked No. 23 nationally, began its 2025 season with a 2-0 victory over Catholic University on Saturday in Ewing, New Jersey.
Ali Simmons scored the first goal early in the second quarter after a sequence that started with her corner insertion to Jadyn Huff and ended with Simmons finishing into the open left side of the cage. Emma Jordan, returning to play after missing last season due to injury, added a second goal late in the fourth quarter by converting a rebound from a shot by Huff.
TCNJ controlled much of the first half, recording ten shots and eight penalty corners while limiting Catholic to one shot and one corner before halftime. Catholic increased pressure in the third quarter, taking four shots and forcing Lions goalkeeper Brigitte Racey into two saves. The Cardinals had an opportunity to tie when Maddie Pennisi took a penalty stroke late in the third period, but her attempt hit the crossbar.
In total, TCNJ outshot Catholic 18-6 and earned 14 penalty corners compared to five for their opponent. Racey finished with three saves for her tenth career shutout. Emma Bowman made eight saves for Catholic.
Simmons’ goal marked her third career tally. The teams have now opened their seasons against each other for eight consecutive years; TCNJ has won seven of those matchups.
TCNJ will travel to face DeSales University on Wednesday.
