Kira Leclercq is making waves in field hockey this season. This past weekend, she shined in matches against American and Towson, earning her second consecutive Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week award. Remarkably, this is her fourth win in just 2025 and her eighth overall. She’s now tied with Steph Graf (2006) for the most awards in a single season.
In the match against American, Leclercq made a crucial defensive save during a tight 3-2 loss. Her efforts helped Bucknell tie the game after they fell behind 2-0. With four defensive saves this season, she currently ranks second in the conference, and her career total of 25 places her second in Bucknell history.
The next day against Towson, Leclercq delivered a memorable performance, scoring her second career hat trick. She opened the scoring with a well-placed shot from a penalty corner, giving Bucknell a vital 2-1 lead. Later, she confidently converted a penalty stroke to extend their lead. She completed her hat trick with another successful penalty stroke, further sealing the victory.
Now, Leclercq shares the conference lead for goals, tied with Boston’s Caroline O’Brien at ten, and sits second in points with 25. She’s just two goals and two points shy of entering Bucknell’s top ten for both categories.
As Bucknell heads into the coming week, they face two non-conference opponents: Lock Haven on Wednesday and Davidson on Sunday. Currently, the Bison hold a record of 7-6 overall and 3-2 in the Patriot League.
Field hockey has garnered growing attention, especially at the college level. According to a recent survey by the NCAA, attendance at field hockey games has increased by 15% over the past five years, reflecting a rising interest in the sport. Leclercq’s success certainly contributes to this trend, showcasing talent that inspires younger players and fans alike.
For more insights into collegiate sports and their impact, the NCAA offers extensive data and resources on participation and viewership statistics here.
