SOUTH BEND, Ind. - The Panthers traveled to South Bend this past weekend to face the University of Notre Dame in their first conference match of the fall 2021 season. The Fighting Irish always show to be a fierce competitor for the Panthers as well as a physical match. Davenport started off strong and carried it through to finish in a 66-17 victory. After the success against Grace College, Adrian, and Grand Valley, the Panthers were hard at work in training to improve their skills to prepare for upcoming matches. The hard work seemed to pay off this weekend, as we saw during their gameplay and teamwork on Friday night.

The Panthers focused on key aspects of support, communication, and structure to become victorious. Following their structure, the forward pack was able to crash into contact and dominate the field. Freshman Hiva Kinikini, sophomore Olivia Farkas, and junior Ashleigh DeWitt left their fierceness on the field with their ball in hand and contact skills.

The leadership from the veterans showed in their constant communication to fight back after each breakaway for the Irish. Supporting each other throughout using offloads to gain yards and send the ball through hands to score. The 9 and 10, Aubrey Crist and Addy Ochoa, led the back line for numerous runs, hat tricks, and scoring opportunities. Jasmine Hernandez and Lauren Peterson played aggressively, using their speed to cut through Notre Dame's defense and making it to the try line.

Davenport was able to start executing what they have learned in training and will be back building on those this week ending in a home match against Ohio State University. Come cheer on the Panthers as they pounce back into action Saturday, Sept. 25 at 4:30 PM on the DU Turf Field. 

Story by Mariah Pruitt