Gov. Livingston Field Hockey Looks to Build on Young, Energetic Core

The Governor Livingston High School field hockey team is entering its 2026 campaign with a young and energetic roster. Sixth year head coach Jackie Wells leads the Highlanders squad after previously serving as a coach within the regional program for eleven years.

The team opened its schedule with a narrow 1–0 road loss against Mount Saint Dominic. The opposing squad secured the only goal of the match during the second quarter of play. Union County Life tracked the defensive effort as goalkeepers Reese Zichicki and Emma Mulroy split time on the field to record fifteen combined saves. Zichicki registered nine stops during her rotation while Mulroy turned away six shots.

The Highlanders are working to build momentum following a 3–13–1 record during the previous season. Senior captain and midfielder Avery Ha returns to lead the roster before continuing her athletic career at Stevens Institute of Technology next year. Junior captain Meredith Fettes joins her in the starting core alongside sophomore contributors Dessa Tombros and Ella Cozic. Coach Wells noted that the program possesses a strong mix of returning players and fresh athletes who bring competitiveness to the daily practices. The squad continues a stretch of four consecutive away matches to open the season, traveling next to face Boonton at 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11.

FAQ:
Q: Who is the head coach of the Governor Livingston field hockey team?
A: Jackie Wells is in her sixth season as head coach and her eleventh overall year with the Highlanders coaching staff.

Q: How did the Highlanders perform in their opening game of the season?
A: Governor Livingston dropped a close 1–0 away match against Mount Saint Dominic after a second-quarter goal.

Q: Where will Avery Ha play college field hockey?
A: The senior midfielder and team captain has committed to continue her academic and athletic career at Stevens Institute of Technology.