East Stroudsburg, Pa -The road to a national championship begins at Whitenight Field for East Stroudsburg University, as the Warriors host Frostburg State in a highly anticipated NCAA First Round matchup. For ESU, the postseason marks a return to familiar territory making it's eight consecutive NCAA tournament appearance. In the postseason experience meets opportunity, and every possession matters. The Warriors have proven they belong among the nation's best, and Thursday's clash offers a perfect test against a Frostburg team riding its own wave of success.

Tickets for Thursday's NCAA First Round Game can be purchased with cash at the entrance.

General Admission: $10

Students from participating institutions & senior citizens: $5

Warrior Offense:  Sadie Kauffman (94 goals, 119 points) has emerged as one of the most dangerous offensive threats in Division II. Ariana Tucci (50 goals, 19 assists) adds an explosive presence, while Jolee Roth (25 assists) orchestrates plays from up top. Lauren Hallman (37 goals) and Hannah Schiemer (28 goals) stretch defenses and punish late slides.

The Warriors consistently generate high-percentage opportunities, particularly in settled sets, and boast one of the nation’s most efficient free-position units at 60.6%. Their motion offense tests defensive discipline, frequently creating mismatches and breakdowns. In transition, ESU strikes with speed and precision, turning turnovers and clears into quick goals.

Warrior Defense:  Goalkeeper Abby Simonetti has been a difference-maker all season, posting a .558 save percentage and repeatedly stepping up in critical moments. Emily Varilla (27 caused turnovers, 42 draw controls) and Molly Atwell (34 draw controls, 22 caused turnovers) anchor the defensive unit.

Mac Maloney (15 CT, 29 GB) is one of ESU’s most consistent off-ball defenders, with her 29 ground balls tied for fourth on the team—highlighting her tenacity on loose balls. Taylor Vara (13 CT, 29 GB) plays a pivotal role in ESU’s clearing game and stands out for her body positioning, whether defending cutters or sliding in support.

As a unit, the Warriors have totaled 211 caused turnovers and maintain a strong 86% clearing rate. They thrive in settled defense, often forcing opponents deep into the shot clock. Disciplined and efficient, ESU ranks among the nation’s best in fewest fouls committed and consistently flips the field when it matters most.

Scouting Frostburg

Frostburg State enters the matchup at 13-6 with a high-powered offense averaging 16 goals per game. The Bobcats are led by Neila Haney (73 goals, 70 draw controls), a dynamic two-way threat who scores in transition, off set plays, and dominates the draw circle to fuel their tempo. Camden DeMaio (62 goals, 37 assists) adds balance with her ability to finish in tight spaces and create for others.

As a team, Frostburg has converted 66-of-122 free-position attempts and forces nearly 15 turnovers per game, making them dangerous on both ends of the field.

Up next:

The game is set for noon on Thursday, May 8 at Whitenight Field. The winner will advance to face No. 2 seed Slippery Rock on Saturday, May 10, also at Whitenight Field.