“We’re in a celebrating mood, and Chancellor Marty Meehan has invited alumni, students, faculty and staff to a championship rally. Celebration will include screening video highlights from the game, live music and other festivities.

Friday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m. , Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell Lobby, MLKing Jr. Drive

“UMass Lowell is celebrating a national championship and a perfect season!”

We’re not only number one in the nation when it comes to Division II field hockey, but we did it with an unblemished 24-0 record, capturing the title Dec. 4 in Louisville, KY, with a 1-0 win over Shippensburg.

While UMass Lowell has perched atop the Division II field hockey world before – national champs in 2005 – it was never with a 24-0 season. That combination is a first for the University.

Yes, perfect.

Goalie Melanie Hopkins, a freshman, turned away all six shots on goal by Shippensburg, and Liz Day’s goal in the 22nd minute of the first half was all the offense the River Hawks needed. And it’s the second title for Coach Shannon Hlebichuk, who also helmed the team to its 2005 title.”