The Matchup

 
One of the most storied rivalries in all of U SPORTS is set to begin on Saturday as UBC takes on UVic in women's field hockey.
 
The two Canada West powerhouses will play a two game series at the UVic field hockey turf on Saturday, September 16 at 11:00am and again on Sunday at 11:00am.


 
In 2017, the Canada West champion will earn the right to host the U SPORTS national championship, making the games virtual 'must wins' for both squads.
 
 

Last Action

 

The last match both UBC and UVic played was the 2016 U SPORTS championship final in Toronto.
 
The game ended with the Thunderbirds capturing a dramatic 2-1 shootout victory and their sixth consecutive national championship.
 
UBC goaltender Gabby Switzer stopped all four UVic attempts in the shootout to propel the 'Birds to victory.
 
 

By the Numbers

 
6 – a number the Thunderbirds' field hockey program knows well, as it's how many national championships they have won in a row.


 
2 – the amount of frontline goalies the UBC roster boasts this season with Switzer and the return to health of Rowan Harris. The 'Birds will be stacked between the pipes.
 

Quotable

 
With the winner of Canada West getting the opportunity to host the U SPORTS finals, the veteran Thunderbirds realize the importance of the match-up with UVic.
 
"This will be a very tough game," said fifth-year defender Sophie Jones. "With this new format for determining a who competes for the national championship, it's exciting we are starting off against Victoria."
 
"It outs a lot more pressure on us to perform in these first two games," said fourth-year midfielder Emily Martin. "We need to really prepare ourselves and come out strong."