The three-time defending Atlantic 10 champion Saint Joseph's field hockey team is set to kick off another new season this week as the Hawks head to Storrs, Connecticut, to take on UConn on Friday before a neutral-site tilt with New Hampshire on Saturday.
 
Third-year head coach Hannah Prince shared some insight into what to expect from the Hawks, ranked atop the Atlantic 10 preseason poll and 13th in the National Field Hockey Coaches Association's Preseason Poll, as they embark on a new campaign.
 
With all of the success that this group has had, how do you refocus everyone on new goals for a new season?  Does it get easier as the players get more experience or is complacency something you're always going to be fighting?
 
Hannah Prince: This season, we've concentrated on setting our larger goals and then breaking them down into smaller, more frequently-measured objectives.  I believe this approach will help us achieve our goals and foster moments of accountability and learning throughout the journey.  This group is exceptionally driven to make history, and I have no doubt they will put in the work day-in and day-out to make it happen!
 
You return an incredible amount of experience from last year's squad; what kind of a difference will that make for this year's group?
 
HP: The experience we return is invaluable.  This group is not only incredibly focused and dedicated but the returning players also serve as strong leaders and role models.  Their attributes will significantly help the younger players grow and learn.
 
You also have some notable experience among your new additions; how impactful do you think those transfers can be for the squad?

HP: Regarding our transfers, I believe each new addition will make a unique impact, whether through their playing abilities, leadership, positive attitudes, or support for their teammates.
 
As always, there are some highly-ranked teams on this year's schedule; why is it important for the Hawks to go out and face so many high-level teams outside the Atlantic 10?
 
HP: The Hawks thrive on a challenging out-of-conference schedule.  It prepares us for the postseason and ensures we play our best hockey throughout the season.  Competing at the highest level is not only rewarding and fosters significant growth, but it's also a lot of fun!

The teams that come to visit Hawk Hill will play on a brand new pitch at Ellen Ryan Field; how has the new turf been thus far?  The team also moved into its new locker room; how exciting is it to have these new facilities ready to go?
 
HP: The new turf is performing excellently, and we are incredibly grateful to the University for replacing the playing surface at Ellen Ryan Field with top-of-the-line AstroTurf.
 
The team absolutely loves the new locker room!  It's a fantastic space where they can set themselves up for success, create memories, and enjoy their time.
 
The Atlantic 10 Championship is on home turf this season, and obviously the goal is to win it and move on to the NCAA Tournament.  What are one or two things the Hawks need to do between now and November to put themselves in the best position to lift the trophy once again?
 
HP: We need to approach each training session and game with the understanding that every single one is crucial to our success.  Competing every day and staying focused on each moment and play will prepare us for the postseason, and embracing these principles will truly set us up for success.