On Friday, the Fairfield women’s lacrosse team will return to Rafferty Stadium to face the Quinnipiac Bobcats in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference semifinals at 12:00 p.m.

After winning last season’s MAAC Championship, the Stags enter with a chance to repeat and secure another spot in the NCAA Tournament. The Stags were named 2026 MAAC Regular Season Champions, marking the program’s 17th such title.

The Stags had a strong season, finishing 13-3 (8-0 in conference), while the Bobcats went 10-7 (4-4 in conference).

The success has been driven by team chemistry. 

“We play selflessly, and we play for each other, not just for ourselves,” said junior defender Delaney Brimhall. The Stags’ ability to play cohesively has allowed them to cruise to the conference title and score 187 goals.

Earlier this season, the teams met at Quinnipiac, where the Stags won 17-13. Sophomore attacker Tessa Caputo recorded a season-high five goals against the Bobcats and added three assists.

The Stags controlled the draw 18-14 in that matchup, giving them a slight possession advantage that could again be a key factor in the semifinal.

“We focus on what we are doing and what we bring to the table,” said junior attacker Kelly Haggerty, highlighting the team’s approach heading into the game.

Several players will be key in Friday’s semifinal. Graduate midfielder Haley Burns was named MAAC Midfielder of the Year. Burns finished the regular season with 29 goals and 35 caused turnovers. Haggerty, the MAAC Preseason Player of the Year, has also been a consistent scoring threat, finishing the season with 40 goals.

Quinnipiac enters the semifinal after a 13-11 win over Canisius on Sunday.

With an MAAC title and an NCAA Tournament berth on the line, Friday’s semifinal is expected to be a tight matchup. Fairfield will look to maintain possession throughout the game, while the Bobcats hope their offense can break through and flip the result.