Former Penn State field hockey star and captain Mackenzie Allessie is taking her talents to Loretto, Pennsylvania, as the new head coach for St. Francis‘ field hockey program.

Allessie’s talent shined at Penn State as a dominating midfielder. As a true freshman, Allessie started all 18 games for the Nittany Lions and was named First Team All-Region by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association and First Team All-Big Ten.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have Mackenzie lead our field hockey program,” Saint Francis Director of Athletics James Downer said in a release. “Her achievements on the field and her standing as one of the premier players in the sport will undoubtedly benefit the growth of our team as we look to capitalize on our recent success in the Northeast Conference. I look forward to Mackenzie utilizing her vast playing experience and knowledge into becoming one of the top young coaches in the country.” 

During her college career, Allessie was named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, a First Team All-American, and a two-time member of the U.S. National Team. She also led Penn State her senior season with 18 assists, 12 goals, and ended the season with 42 points.

While playing for the U.S. National Team, Allessie won Bronze at the 2019 Pen American Games in Lima, Peru, and placed ninth overall at the 2019 International Hockey Federation Pro League.

“Mackenzie will be an excellent leader and role model for her players both on and off the field.  Her passion for field hockey is clearly evident in the way she played and will now transfer that passion to coaching and inspiring her team,” former Penn State field hockey head coach Char Morett-Curtiss said of Allessie. “Mackenzie recognizes the importance of a strong team culture emphasizing on working hard and playing together. As a two-time captain at Penn State, she developed leadership and communications skills that will translate into developing a healthy competitive spirit for the players at Saint Francis University.” 

Allessie will join the Red Flash coming off a 10-8 season that concluded in the Northeast Conference semifinals.