UPEI Panthers chasing national crown at Field Hockey Canada U Sports championship from

UPEI Panthers Set Sights on National Field Hockey Crown

PEI Panthers Aiming for First Championship at U Sports National Tournament

The UPEI Panthers are gearing up for the biggest weekend in their program's history as they chase their first national championship at the 2023 Field Hockey Canada U Sports Championship in Victoria, British Columbia. The Panthers earned their berth at the national tournament after winning the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) title with a perfect 8-0 record. They are making their fourth appearance at nationals, but have yet to reach the podium.

Panthers Have Strong Regular Season

UPEI has been one of the top teams in the country all season long, finishing the regular season ranked third in the U Sports national rankings. They have a balanced attack, led by AUS MVP Jennyfer Mattie, who had 12 goals and nine assists in the regular season. The Panthers also have a strong defense, allowing just nine goals in eight regular season games.

Panthers Set to Face Calgary Dinos in Quarterfinals

UPEI will open the national tournament against the Calgary Dinos in the quarterfinals on Thursday, November 3. The Dinos are the No. 6 seed in the tournament, and they finished the regular season with a record of 6-4-2. The Panthers will need to play their best game of the season if they want to upset the Dinos and advance to the semifinals.

Panthers Aiming for Podium Finish

The Panthers are hoping to make a deep run at the national tournament and finish on the podium for the first time in program history. "We've been working hard all season for this," said Panthers head coach Shane Calder. "We know it's going to be a tough tournament, but we're confident we can compete with anyone."