Three Kent State field hockey players look to finish their collegiate career with consecutive Mid-American Conference regular season championships.

“Last year we were just as strong as we are this year,” senior midfielder Allison Kittelberger said. “We’ve had to work harder this year, so I definitely think we put in the work to be at where we are at now.”

Kent State (11-6, 7-1 MAC) is on top of the standings, trailed closely by both Miami and Ohio. Both the RedHawks and the Bobcats have 6-2 MAC records.

If the team can win one game this weekend, they are guaranteed a share of the 10th regular season MAC title in school history.

Kittelberger said she feels pressure going into the weekend’s games because there is a fight for first place.

“There is always pressure when you’re doing well like we have been,” she said. “But I think it’s more like since we are seniors, it’s our last year, and if we don’t perform we can’t say ‘Oh at least there is next year.'”

Kittelberger, senior forward Laurie Wilkins and senior back Kara Rhodenbaugh will be honored before Sunday’s game for senior day.

Kittelberger, who has been a key contributor in penalty corners, has two goals and eight assists this season with 12 points. With 26 career assists, Kittelberger is 10th all-time in the Kent State record books. She has started 60 consecutive games.

Wilkins has six goals, three assists and 15 points this season. She has played in all but three games throughout her Kent State career.

Rhodenbaugh has two goals this season, but she is a key defensive player in the Flashes backfield.

On Saturday, the Flashes welcome Miami to Murphy-Mellis field at 11 before hosting Ball State on Sunday.

Contact sports reporter Cody Erbacher at [email protected].