ELMIRA, N.Y. – The Hartwick Women's basketball team went head to head with the Soaring Eagles of Elmira College, dropping their first conference match with a tough result on Friday night.

HOW IT HAPPENED
The Hawks traveled to Elmira riding the momentum of a conference opening victory over SUNY Poly on Tuesday, looking to avenge last season's lone loss to the Soaring Eagles. Hartwick set the tone early behind high effort plays on the offensive glass, as Jess Bowens (Mechanicville, NY) opened the scoring with a strong putback. Macy Durkin (Syracuse, N.Y.) followed with another second-chance bucket before Meghan Paul (Waterford, NY) knocked down a three to stretch the defense.

Elmira stayed within striking distance throughout the opening quarter, but a steady interior presence and a perfect trip to the free-throw line from Emma Cohen (Utica, N.Y.) helped the Hawks carry a three point edge into the second frame.

Hartwick found its rhythm early in the second quarter, as back-to-back triples from Leah Schoonover (Fredericksburg, VA) and Trinity Thornton (Sherburne, N.Y.) sparked a 13–4 run. The Soaring Eagles responded late in the quarter, trimming the deficit to single digits, but the Hawks maintained a nine-point cushion at the break.

Momentum shifted in the third quarter as turnovers plagued the Blue and White, allowing Elmira to slowly work its way back into the contest. Schoonover and Paul connected from deep to momentarily halt the surge, but Elmira continued to capitalize, tying the game at 40 with five minutes remaining before taking the lead on a three-pointer. Cohen led the Hawks' offensive push, but frequent trips to the free-throw line allowed Elmira to take a four-point advantage into the final period.

Elmira carried that momentum into the fourth quarter, as Hartwick's cold shooting continued and the Soaring Eagles pulled away. The Hawks were unable to regain their footing down the stretch, dropping their first conference contest of the season.

UP NEXT FOR THE HAWKS
The Hawks will head to Keuka College for a 2PM tip off against the Wolves on Saturday, January 10th, continuing their Empire 8 conference schedule.

About Hartwick College:
Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.