A Record Season

The successful run ended on Nov. 27 in the Sweet Sixteen loss to No. 1 seed Oregon State. That game, coming off a powerhouse win for UNH against UNC (4-1), was UNH’s sixth NCAA Tournament appearance and fifth straight, during a season when the Wildcats outscored the opposition, 47-10.

With the team motto of “Delayed, not Denied,” the Wildcat players believe that their next championship is within reach again — they’ve been America East champions for the past three years.

“We fell short this year, but each year we’ve had success in different ways,” said Jacob Gould ’21 ’22G.

One of the many season highlights was the bicycle kick goal by back Bridger Hansen delivered during that game against the Tar Heels.

Hansen’s kick — which was featured on ESPN’s Sports Center — “riled up” the team even more, said junior midfielder Rory O’Driscoll. “We came out flying and to get that as our first goal was all the motivation to keep us going and get another and get another.”

O’Driscoll ’23 says under Hubbard’s leadership, the team believes in a culture of winning, but “also a culture of togetherness and family.” Hubbard says the team has bought into the idea of individual and team responsibility not only on the field, but also in their lives. “The guys understand that if they hold each other accountable, there’s proof in helping us achieve things we’ve never achieved in and helping to raise the profile not only of this program but of the school.”