GLASSBORO, NJ-
Mia Foti's second-half goal was the gamewinner as #10 Rowan defeated TCNJ, 2-1, on its home field to capture its sixth consecutive NJAC Field Hockey Championship. It marks the 12th conference title in the program's history and the seventh since 2018.
With the game tied at 1-1, Rowan was awarded a corner with :01 remaining in the third quarter.
Paige Gray made the insert pass to Foti at the top of the circle. The junior took the ball towards the end line on the right side and at a tough angle, lifted it into the far side of the cage for her second gamewinner of the season.
"I know how difficult this can be (to win consecutive titles) but this one just felt harder. To maintain this and constantly put the product out on the field and have the girls believe in you and the team, it's really rewarding and it's really hard. But it's great," said head coach
Michelle Andre, who has led the team to seven conference championships.
"Being at this level and doing it consistently, it is hard work and commitment. That's what I mean, to stay at that level all the time and to be able to maintain that level all the time, it's pretty spectacular."
Chloe Yoder started things off for the Profs as she converted a penalty stroke with less than a minute to play in the first quarter, for the 1-0 lead. It marked the third successful conversion in three attempts this year for the freshman and the second straight that she scored on one.
TCNJ (12-6) knotted the game with five minutes remaining in the third quarter when Jayden Huff sent the ball towards the goal and Emma McElroy slipped it into the cage from close range.
Rowan goalie
Ella Morton and the Profs' defense faced 11 penalty corners and eight shots by the Lions but maintained the 2-1 lead the rest of the way, with Morton making four saves.
The Profs have now won 17 of their last 18 games, after starting the year 0-3.
"I knew what kind of team I had, I think they just had to believe what they could do. I do believe our Virginia trip and Swarthmore game are what made our season," said Andre.
By earning the league's automatic bid, Rowan will be making its 8th appearance in the NCAA Championship under Andre, and the 23rd all-time. The Profs await the announcement of the NCAA Championship bracket, which will be broadcast on NCAA.com on Sunday at 9 p.m.
