Three Penn State field hockey players, Sophia Gladieux, Sophia Mannino, and Drew Taylor, were recognized as Big Ten Players to Watch ahead of the team’s home opener against Virginia.

Gladieux had a chance to represent team USA and Penn State this summer for the Paris Olympics, as she was called up to play for USA’s national field hockey team. While at the Olympics, Gladieux recorded her first Olympic goal against Spain. Last year, Gladieux was named Penn State Female Athlete of the Tear, Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, and scored six game-winning goals.

Before suffering a season-ending injury last year against Deleware, Mannino showed strong potential by starting the first six season games. She recorded three goals, one assist, and six shots on goal.

Taylor, both a forward and midfielder, is coming off of a strong 2022-23 season where she emerged as a full-time starter. Taylor also recorded her first career goal last season against Stanford, contributing to a 5-1 win over the Cardinals. She finished her season with one goal and six shots on goal.

No. 16 Penn State field hockey makes its 2024 debut at 4 p.m. on Friday, August 30, against No. 3 Virginia.