The fall athletics season is off to a strong and spirited start at Stevenson University, with teams across multiple sports showcasing standout performances, new talent, and plenty of early success. From record-setting plays on the gridiron to dominant wins on the pitch and court, here’s a full look at a busy and victorious opening week in Mustang sports:
Volleyball Battles Midwest Road Trip at Pam Briggs Classic
The women’s volleyball team finished 1-3 at the Pam Briggs Classic in Ohio, bouncing back after a tough opening day. The Mustangs fell in straight sets to Centre (Ky.) and host Otterbein on Friday but swept Capital on Saturday before dropping the finale to Hanover, 3-0.
In the win over Capital, Lillanna Hornickle, Sydney Salazar, and Logan Burge each posted eight kills, while Declyn Tooze recorded four service aces and Courtney Foose dished out 22 assists. Despite the loss to Hanover, Giulia Viglietta earned a spot on the All-Classic Team for her consistent two-way play across all four matches.
Football Overcomes Early Deficit to Defeat Bridgewater
Stevenson football opened its 2025 season with a thrilling 32-27 comeback win over Bridgewater (Va.) on Saturday night. Down 14-0 after the first quarter, the Mustangs erupted for 26 points in the second to seize control of the game.
Quarterback Jailen Knight threw for 152 yards in his debut, while Louis Clouser rushed for two touchdowns. Seth Parker added a score and 91 receiving yards. The defense stepped up in key moments—Matthew Berry returned an interception 92 yards for a touchdown, a school record, and Daryus Henderson added a 50-yard pick. Kicker Micah Veilleux nailed a school-record 49-yard field goal to help seal the win.
Field Hockey Remains Perfect at 4-0
The Mustangs kept rolling in field hockey, improving to 4-0 with a 4-1 victory over Penn State-Harrisburg. Gracyn Catalano had a breakout game with two goals and an assist, while Coco Wallace, Monica Druckemiller, and Hailey Mertz each contributed to the scoring attack.
Stevenson dominated statistically, outshooting the Nittany Lions 27-8 and controlling possession throughout. Goalkeepers Jordan Vradenburgh and Ollie Winterle combined for two saves in another sharp performance in the cage.
Men’s Soccer Blanks Gallaudet in 9-0 Victory
The Stevenson men’s soccer team delivered a statement win on Saturday, overpowering Gallaudet in a 9-0 rout. Ellis Amo scored early, followed by goals from Gianfranco Vitella, Nico Paz (his first collegiate goal), and Jorge Montecinos.
Freshman Jeffrey Tillman starred in his debut with two goals and an assist for a six-point outing. The Mustangs held Gallaudet without a single shot on goal in a dominant all-around performance.
Women’s Soccer Falls in Weather-Shortened Match
The women’s soccer team fell 1-0 to Washington College on Saturday in a match cut short by lightning. The lone goal came in the 60th minute, and despite several late pushes, the Mustangs couldn’t equalize before the game was halted with six minutes remaining.
Goalkeeper Isabella Serano recorded eight saves in another solid performance, while Karly Sheahan and Isabella Pecunes led the offensive efforts.
Beach Volleyball Opens Season 3-1 in South Carolina
Stevenson men’s beach volleyball opened its 2025 campaign in Due West, South Carolina, with an impressive 3-1 record. After a 4-1 loss to Erskine, the Mustangs responded by sweeping Wingate 5-0, edging Liberty 3-2, and defeating Tusculum 4-1 to close the weekend.
The performance showcased the Mustangs’ depth and potential heading into the fall beach season.
Women’s Golf Wins McDaniel Invitational Behind Sundstrom’s Debut Victory
First-year Sydni Sundstrom made an immediate impact in her collegiate debut, firing a 9-over-par 81 to win individual honors and lead Stevenson to a one-stroke team victory over Gettysburg at the McDaniel Fall Invitational.
Alexis Marsh placed fourth with an 85, while fellow newcomers Carissa Dargenio (10th) and Callie Dias (11th) helped secure the team win. The Mustang “B” team also had strong showings from Ela Simpson and Isabella Ventura.
