Kalbacher Scores Four Times in Loss at Marquette

Chippewas fall 19-6 despite strong first-half performance

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Sophomore Caye Kalbacher recorded her first career multi-goal game with four goals, including a first-half hat trick, but Central Michigan Lacrosse fell 19-6 at Marquette on Friday night. The Chippewas trailed 7-5 at halftime before the Golden Eagles pulled away in the second half.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the potential of sophomore Caye Kalbacher, who nearly matched her entire goal total from last season in a single outing. However, the loss drops Central Michigan to 0-1 on the young season as they continue a tough early schedule against ranked opponents.

The details

Kalbacher scored four goals, including three in the first half, to keep Central Michigan within striking distance. Freshman Mia Bradley recorded her first career points with assists on two of Kalbacher's goals. Goalkeeper Leila Kahler made 12 saves, one shy of her career high. The Chippewas outperformed Marquette in the draw circle and on free position shots, but were ultimately overwhelmed by the Golden Eagles' offensive firepower.

  • The game was played on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • Central Michigan will visit #2 Northwestern on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Caye Kalbacher

A sophomore from Austin, Texas who recorded her first career multi-goal game with four goals, including a first-half hat trick.

Mia Bradley

A freshman from Orchard Park, New York who recorded her first career points with two assists on Kalbacher's goals.

Leila Kahler

A senior goalkeeper from Spring Lake, Michigan who made 12 saves, one shy of her career high.

Julia Werner

Scored Central Michigan's first goal of the season less than four minutes into the game to tie it 1-1.

Ava Regitz

Won two draw controls for the Chippewas.

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What’s next

Central Michigan will visit #2 ranked Northwestern on Sunday, February 15, 2026 as they continue their tough early season schedule.

The takeaway

Despite the loss, Caye Kalbacher's breakout performance shows promise for the Chippewas' young squad as they look to build momentum heading into conference play. However, Central Michigan will need to find more consistent offensive production to compete with top-ranked opponents on their schedule.