The Stevenson Mustangs took the ice for an emotional Senior Day on Friday, Feb. 7, with a 7- 4 victory against The Hood College Blazers at the Reisterstown Sportsplex. 

One graduate student, Franki Capello reflects post-game.

“I’m in a unique position because this was actually my second senior night, but this one was much more bittersweet because, for me, it was the realization that my collegiate career finally is coming to an end,” Capello said. “It is also a reminder to take in every moment because it ends in the blink of an eye. My team did such an amazing job celebrating us, and I am so grateful to have such special girls in my life.” 

Capello echoed the importance of relationships formed on this team and the passion that acts like an umbrella applying shade over the long and demanding season many student-athletes are faced with. 

With the world standing still and emotions flying high, this game marked a day to remember for six dedicated seniors/grad students: Goaltender and team captain Olivia DeGuire, defenseman Maddie Silverman, forward Megan Swick, along with Cappello, Gracie Payne, and Katie May. These athletes have been instrumental to the team’s success over their careers, leading both on and off the ice with dedication and determination.

Additionally, Friday’s game was a special occasion for Cappello, as she reached a significant career milestone. Cappello, a standout player for the Mustangs, has been a leader for her Stevenson tenure but tonight was her 100th career game. Her impact on the program has been undeniable, and her leadership was on full display as Stevenson celebrated a victory for their seniors. 

A Dominant Start

Stevenson entered the matchup relying on a balanced attack and a resilient defensive effort. DeGuire, a four-year standout in net, has been the keystone for the Mustangs, surpassing 1,000 career saves last season. DeGuire was standing on her head Friday night with 37 saves on 41 shots. The Mustangs were outshot 41 to 26 by the end of the third period so a helmet tap is in order for DeGuire after her efforts in the matchup against The Blazers.

The Mustangs wasted no time setting the tone against Hood, jumping out to a commanding lead in the first period. Stevenson continued its offensive onslaught as Swick found the back of the net unassisted at 11:12, making it 3-0. Although Hood responded with a goal at 16:26, Stevenson quickly answered as the third-year Maggie Dean and second-year Abby Smith extended the lead to 4-1 by the end of the first period.

The Mustangs carried their momentum into the second period, adding two more quick goals. Third-year Meghan Croyle struck just 47 seconds into the frame, and Dean notched another at 1:04 to push the lead to 6-1.

Despite a push from Hood in the third period, Stevenson remained composed. DeGuire anchored the defense with several key saves, while Silverman and the defensive unit blocked crucial shots. Hood managed to cut the deficit to 6-4 late in the game, but second-year Carleigh Barwick, sealed the victory with a goal at 14:21, securing a 7-4 win for the Mustangs.

Reflections from the Seniors

For the graduating class, Senior Day was about more than just the game—it was a chance to reflect on their time in the program and a chance to show what it means to be a Mustang.

“As my college career comes to an end, it is hard to think about hanging the skates up,” Swick said. “My plans after graduation include working in the medical field and applying to PA school to become a physician’s assistant. I will stay active on the ice as much as possible because hockey will forever be a part of my life. However, I will be putting my career and academics at the forefront in this next big chapter of my life.”

Capello looks back on her college career with pride for the challenges she overcame.

“During my first years here, I fought so hard to play. I worked on becoming better every single day. I had so many trials and tribulations, and I never once gave up,” Capello said.

Underclassmen, including Jayne Debejian, credited the seniors for their leadership and work ethic.

“They lead by example through their consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s scoring a game-winning goal or making an important defensive play, they inspire the rest of the team to elevate their game,” Debejian said.

Looking Ahead

All in all, the seniors showed up with one goal in mind, to win, and executed in the late of the night on Friday, Feb. 8. With the regular season winding down, The Mustangs will look to build on their Senior Day performance as they test their luck in the standings with the playoff clock ticking. 

The Mustangs won another barn burner in overtime 3-2 against Neumann University on Monday, Feb. 10 keeping their playoff hopes alive. 

Stevenson will face Alvernia University on Feb. 14 in another demanding MAC conference matchup. 

“I’ve been on the team for five years, and every year I have created incredibly impactful relationships. I’m not quite sure what it is, whether it is because it is my last year on the team or this specific group of girls, but I have never felt as close to my team as I do now.” Cappello wrote in an email.

The Mustangs hope to carry this momentum into the final home stretch of the season giving the seniors a memorable end to their season.