This past weekend, the MAX Field Hockey High School Invitational took place at the Proving Grounds in Conshohocken, PA. Sixty-four of the nation’s top teams gathered for more than 70 games, setting the stage for thrilling matchups across the event. This week, we’re highlighting some of the most compelling storylines, standout teams, and unforgettable moments from the tournament.
Top Story: North vs. South
The tournament kicked off on Friday with two exciting North vs. South battles.
On Field 1, Notre Dame Academy de Namur (PA) clashed with The Kinkaid School (TX) in a game that showcased both outstanding defense and explosive attack. Notre Dame stormed to a dominant 9-2 victory, led by Top-10 senior and Princeton commit Reese Milone, whose defensive presence and distribution propelled the Irish to victory.
Meanwhile, on Field 2, Mannheim Township (PA) faced Saint John’s School (TX) in a tightly contested matchup. This time, the South prevailed, with Saint John’s garnering a 2-1 win.
Saturday brought another thriller as Sacred Heart Academy (KY) edged Conestoga (PA), 3-2, in a back-and-forth battle. The weekend wrapped up with a Sunday showdown between Lower Dauphin (PA) and The Kinkaid School (TX). Tied 3–3 at the end of regulation, Kinkaid sealed the 4–3 overtime victory, proving that even far from home, Southern teams came ready to compete.
Top Teams
Notre Dame Dominance Notre Dame Academy de Namur (PA) lived up to its #1 national ranking with one of the most commanding performances of the tournament. The Irish went undefeated, defeating #7 Kinkaid and Christian Academy of Louisville, while outscoring opponents 14-3. Their combination of airtight defense, rapid counterattacks, and clinical finishing left no doubt. They deserve their top spot and don’t plan on giving it up.
John Burroughs Impresses As the first Missouri team to ever attend the Invitational, John Burroughs School (MO) wasted no time making an impression. Behind their disciplined passing game, the Bombers went 3-0 on the weekend. Led by Coach Carrie Chapman and captain Katy Chapman, they proved they belong on the national stage. Expect this team to make noise not only in Missouri but across the country.
Coach Carrie Chapman and Katy Chapman of John Burroughs School
Standout Moment
#10 Camden Catholic edges #11 Palmyra in overtime on Sunday featured one of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend: Camden Catholic (NJ) vs. Palmyra (PA). Both programs are powerhouses with a reputation for producing top talent.
Palmyra struck first, but Camden Catholic’s Sophia Stazi answered quickly. Each side added another goal, sending the game into overtime tied 2–2. Top 10 Junior Stazi delivered again in dramatic fashion, blasting home the game-winner on a penalty corner. Final score: 3–2, Camden Catholic.
