ROCHESTER, NY - Three Pioneer Field Hockey players have received recognition from the Empire 8 conference after great individual seasons, with Jocelyn Spiezio (Greenwich, NY/Greenwich) being named to the Empire 8 Third Team, along with Ryleigh Johnson (Camden, NY/Camden), who also earned Empire 8 Third Team honors. Samantha Young (Jordanville, NY/Little Falls) received a Tomorrow's Leaders Team selection. 

Spezio had a breakout Junior season, posting career highs with eight goals, 19 points, and 21 shots on goal, surpassing her sophomore season totals of three goals, seven points, and 14 shots. She was a threat on offense, tallying two game-winning goals for the Pioneers. This is Spezio's first time being selected for the Empire 8 third Team. 

Johnson had a standout Junior season, finishing with two points, along with her first career goal. Johnson's defensive presence was unmatched as she led the team with 7 defensive saves, also proving to be the main focal point of the Pioneer wall as she played 827 minutes and started all 15 games. Johnson was a key part of the Pioneers' defensive success this season. 

Young led as a Captain this year, directing the Pioneer offense as a midfielder while leading the team in assists with four. She recorded a career-high 6 points while continuing to be a dependable player on both offense and defense. Over her 4-year career, Young logged 3,015 minutes, including 864 just this season, demonstrating her leadership on both ends of the field. This season marks Young's first Tomorrow's Leader honor, following her recognition on the Empire 8 Presidents List during her junior year.

The Pioneers wrapped up the 25th anniversary season of Utica Field Hockey. Keep an eye on the team's social media channels for information about season 26!