Nichols' Career Day Lifts Stetson Past Austin Peay on Senior Day

Hatters honor seniors Cross, Jenkins, and Oldford with 17-13 victory

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:04am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action and movement of a women's lacrosse game, with sharp planes of color representing the players, ball, and field.Stetson's decisive victory over Austin Peay on Senior Day highlights the team's continued progress and competitive spirit on the lacrosse field.DeLand Today

Stetson celebrated Senior Day with a 17-13 victory over Austin Peay, honoring seniors Heidi Cross, Sydney Jenkins, and Claire Oldford before the game. The Hatters erupted for 12 unanswered goals spanning the second and third quarters to power past the visiting Governors.

Why it matters

This win on Senior Day caps off a successful season for the Stetson women's lacrosse team, who have continued to build their program and compete at a high level in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Hatters' strong performance in front of their home crowd and senior class highlights the progress the team has made.

The details

Stetson was led by a career-high performance from sophomore midfielder Lily Nichols, who scored 5 goals and added an assist in the victory. The Hatters' defense also stepped up, holding Austin Peay scoreless for over 20 minutes of game time during their decisive run.

  • Stetson honored its three seniors - Heidi Cross, Sydney Jenkins, and Claire Oldford - before the start of the game on Senior Day.
  • The Hatters erupted for 12 unanswered goals spanning the second and third quarters to take control of the game.

The players

Lily Nichols

A sophomore midfielder for the Stetson Hatters who scored a career-high 5 goals in the win over Austin Peay.

Heidi Cross

A senior for the Stetson Hatters who was honored on Senior Day before the game.

Sydney Jenkins

A senior for the Stetson Hatters who was honored on Senior Day before the game.

Claire Oldford

A senior for the Stetson Hatters who was honored on Senior Day before the game.

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What they’re saying

“Our seniors have been the backbone of this program, and it was great to see them honored today with a hard-fought win.”

— Stetson Head Coach Brittany Hartley

What’s next

The Hatters will now await their postseason fate, hoping to earn a bid to the Atlantic Sun Conference tournament.

The takeaway

Stetson's victory on Senior Day showcases the continued growth and competitiveness of their women's lacrosse program, led by a talented sophomore class and a dedicated group of seniors who have helped build the team's foundation.