DOYLESTOWN, PA - The Notre Dame of Maryland Gators opened the 2026 season on the road and fell to Delaware Valley Aggies, 23–3, on Friday afternoon at Robert A. Lipinski Field. The game was a debut for new head coach
Llaquelin Reyes as she took the helm in December for the program.
Notre Dame got on the board late in the first quarter when
Cailyn Motta scored an unassisted goal to cut into Delaware Valley's early lead. Motta paced the Gators' offense on the day, finishing with two goals and one assist. The second Gators goal came early in the second quarter as Motta found the back of the net off an assist from
Ariana Rodriguez. Notre Dame's final goal came later in the period when
Adrienne Villa scored on a man-down opportunity, assisted by Motta.
Despite the score, the Gators showed resilience defensively, with goalkeeper
Leah Hasberry recording 16 saves while facing heavy pressure throughout the contest. Notre Dame also forced several turnovers and converted a free-position opportunity, continuing to compete across all four quarters.
Notre Dame finished with 12 shots and nine draw controls, while Delaware Valley capitalized on possession and depth to pull away as the game progressed. The matchup served as a season-opening test for the Gators against a high-tempo opponent.
Notre Dame of Maryland will look to build on the performance and gain momentum as they next travel to Wilkes University on Saturday, March 7 at 1 PM.