History at UPEI: Panthers welcome Canada’s best in university field hockey

By Thomas Becker

Charlottetown, PEI (August 19, 2025)—For the first time in its history, UPEI will be the centre of Canadian university field hockey this fall. From October 30 to November 2, the UPEI Field Hockey program will welcome three visiting teams for the Field Hockey Canada U SPORTS Invitational, a national championship that will decide the country's best.

For Panthers head coach Lacey MacLauchlan, the chance to bring an event of this scale to Prince Edward Island is about more than just competition.

"I think it's a great opportunity for us to showcase not only our university but also the Island's well-known hospitality," she said. "It's a chance to shine a spotlight on our sport and the incredible talent we have right here at home."

The Panthers will arrive on the national stage with momentum. A year ago, the UPEI team captured their third consecutive Atlantic University Field Hockey title and competed in the inaugural Field Hockey Canada U SPORTS Invitational. MacLauchlan believes that experience has given her players the poise and preparation needed to take the next step, especially with the backing of a home crowd.

"Last year's championship gave us invaluable experience," she said. "We're using that experience to build on our performance and come out even stronger on home turf. The athletes have been working hard, and we're excited to get started."

The roster is a blend of stalwart veterans and rising talent. All-Canadians Livi Lawlor and Kayla Batchilder will once again anchor the attack, while reliable returnees Kail Smith, Charlotte Thompson, Carly Acorn, and Katie Grace Noye will round out a formidable core. In the net will be two promising rookies, goalkeepers Alexis Marshall and Bria Matthews, who both impressed on the national stage at this summer's U18 Field Hockey Canada Nationals.

For fans, the tournament is a rare opportunity to see some of the country's best in action, and MacLauchlan says there's something extra special about watching local players compete on the biggest stage.

"With so many Islanders and Maritimers on our roster, it's always special to play in front of friends and family," she said. "And to do it while showcasing some of the best field hockey athletes in the country makes it even more exciting."

Jane Vessey, Director of Athletics and Recreation, says hosting the national championship is a milestone moment for the UPEI program.

"This event is a testament to the growth of field hockey at UPEI and in our province," said Vessey. "It's an incredible opportunity to showcase the talent of our student-athletes while welcoming the nation to our campus. We couldn't be prouder."

As the Panthers chase their first national medal, MacLauchlan's message to the community is clear: the team needs its fans behind them.

"We're counting on the Panther and Island community to be behind us every step of the way as we chase our first U SPORTS medal," she said.

*CHAMPIONSHIP PACKAGES CAN BE PURCHASED HERE!