The VTSU Castleton Field Hockey team begins the 2026 season under new leadership. Bella Kondi takes over the reins of a squad coming off an 8-11 season a year ago and an appearance in the Little East Semifinals.

"It's been really exciting to get to know this group and start building something together," said Kondi. "They've worked extremely hard, embraced the expectations we've set, and I've been really impressed by their competitiveness and willingness to grow. There's a lot of energy around this team, and I'm excited to see what we can accomplish."

The Spartans bring back several veterans with seven juniors joining two seniors and a fifth year. Last year's top two scorers return in juniors Ava LaRoss and Gwyn Vincent. Peyton Richardson is back for a fifth year as her 2025 campaign was cut short by injury. Two seasons ago, she started 21 games scoring 13 goals to go with 10 assists and was named to the LEC First Team. Both Vincent and Richardson were recently selected to the NFHCA Watchlist.

The defense features a pair of first years in Jaymison Harbison and Alexa Smentkowski. Sophomore Jaedyn Roberson moves from goalkeeper to the defensive backfield. "I'm really excited about the potential of our defense," said Kondi. "We have some new players stepping into important roles, and they've brought a lot of athleticism and versatility to the group. They're continuing to build chemistry and communication, and I think that unit has the potential to be a real strength for us this season."

The team's new goalkeeper is sophomore Izabella Cosden. She transferred to VTSU Castleton from Sweet Briar College in Virginia where Kondi previously coached. "I'm really excited to have Izabella (Bella) here," noted Kondi. "Having coached her at Sweet Briar, I knew the type of player and person she would bring to this program on and off the field. She's competitive, driven, and brings a level of experience that will be really valuable for our team. I have a lot of confidence in her, and I'm excited to see her make an impact here as a student-athlete."

After starting the season on the road at Union College on Tuesday, the Spartans host four straight games at the friendly confines of Dave Wolk Stadium. The month of September wraps up with the team playing three straight road games before hosting Oneonta to finish off the month. The Spartans hope their 2026 season will culminate in another playoff push.