NEWPORT NEWS, Va. --- The University of Lynchburg field hockey team saw its 2025 season come to a close on the road in the NCAA Tournament, falling to No. 1 Christopher Newport in overtime.

The Hornets (17–5) conclude their 2025 campaign with 17 victories, an ODAC title, and an NCAA Tournament first-round win.

Junior goalkeeper Shay Schoones was a crucial factor in Lynchburg's performance, keeping the Hornets in the contest throughout. Schoones posted a season-high 14 saves—just one shy of her career best. The Hoogeveen, Netherlands, native was peppered throughout the game as the Captains' (18–0) offense roared from the opening whistle.

In the first quarter, Schoones recorded five saves against eight CNU shots, keeping the Captains scoreless. Meanwhile, the Hornets were unable to get off a shot attempt during the opening 15 minutes of action.

Lynchburg gained some offensive traction in the second quarter, but Christopher Newport continued to apply heavy pressure, firing nine more shots. Eventually, Courtney Hughlett connected with Emily Evans to break through for the first goal of the game, giving CNU a 1–0 lead heading into halftime.

Coming out of the break, Lynchburg found some offensive momentum, earning a penalty corner and placing two shots on goal. During the surge, Khanyisile Mzizi found Grace Petersson, who fired home the equalizer to make it 1–1.

Despite CNU rattling off nine more shots in the fourth quarter, strong play from Schoones in the cage held the Captains off the board and forced overtime. Ultimately, Christopher Newport's sustained pressure proved too much, as Lindsey Loar netted the golden goal in the 63rd minute to send the Captains to the Elite Eight.