The 1985 season was predicated by perhaps the smartest decision in the history of the department of athletics. Following the departure of Head Coach Melissa McGee, former director of athletics Roy Van Ness hired a recent alumnus who was embarking on a field hockey and lacrosse coaching career. Sharon Goldrenner ’82 was hired to take over both programs in the fall of’85.
During that season, the Lions’ field hockey squad went 8-0 in New Jersey Athletic Conference play, posted a 22-3 overall record, and captured the 1985 NCAA Division III Field Hockey championship.
The season started out strong for TSC, winning three games in the TSC Invitational by a combined score of 22-3. Following a 2-1 setback at Millersville, the Lions rebounded to win 13 of their next 14 including, a 3-0 triumph over Notre Dame.
The Lions battled Glassboro State for the third time that season in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Goalkeeper Charlotte Heenan recorded 14 saves as Chris Heddy netted the game-winner in overtime to secure the 3-2 victory. With a spot in the final four on the line, TSC faced Messiah College. Penny Kempf scored the game’s lone goal to send the Lions to the national semifinal. TSC would advance to the title game, edging Bloomsburg by a score of 1-0. Sue Gallo netted the lone goal of the contest to give the Lions a shot at their third NCAA championship in program history.
In the national championship game, the Lions squared off against Millersville, who had handed them a loss earlier in the season. Kempf continued her clutch play, tallying the game- winning goal as Trenton State claimed its third NCAA national title in program history. It marked the first in the legendary career of current coach, Sharon Pfluger.
Sue Gallo led the Lions that season with 20 goals and 15 assists. Holly Trumpovicz also chipped in 20 goals to go along with 7 assists. Chris Heddy joined them as All-Americans as she scored 18 goals with 2 assists. Cheryl Simonsen scored 13 goals and dished out 10 assists on her way to becoming an All-American Honorable Mention. Charlotte Heenan pitched 13 shutouts between the pipes allowing just 19 goals in 25 games. Gallo, Trumpowivicz, and Simonsen were joined by defender Robin Schwartz on the NJAC All-Conference Team and six Lions were named to the NCAA Division III All-Tournament Team.
For the season, the team outscored their opponents 108-19.
