Football Begins 2026 Campaign
By Sara Law
Stonehill Football opened its 2026 season at home versus non-conference opponent, Bryant University, under the lights of W.B Mason Stadium on August 29th, 2026.
While the season opener provided several memorable individual performances, it also gave the Skyhawks their first opportunity to see how the team would respond in game action after months of preparation.
Sophomore Wide Receiver, Alijah Turner also surpassed 160 all-purpose yards, becoming the first Stonehill player since Brigham Dunphy (2024) with more than 150 all-purpose yards.
Fifth Year Quarterback Jack O’Connell was 19 for 30 with 202 yards, earning him 2,757 career passing yards.
Senior Defensive Lineman Christopher Gill said this game was something special to him, especially after coming of two season-ending injuries in the last two years.
Gill said “It was pretty awesome to finally be back…it had been 700+ days since I played.” Gill did not have to wait long to make his presence felt. In his first game back, the senior broke through the Bryant offensive line and recorded the first sack of his collegiate career. Statistically, it was one play in Stonehill’s season opener. For Gill, it represented nearly two years of work to get back onto the field.
The season opener brought a different feel to W.B. Mason Stadium. With kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m., the Skyhawks played under the lights in front of 2,826 fans. As daylight faded over Easton, the stands filled with students, families, and Stonehill supporters.
“The energy was some of the best I’ve seen in my four years here and the stands were super packed. It was a euphoric and emotional moment after I got my first sack.” Gill said.
“I could hear my teammates, coaches, friends and family that have been by my side through the recovery process going crazy because they knew it was a lot deeper than just a good play,” he continued. With the season now underway, Gill finally has the opportunity he has spent the last two years working toward; competing alongside his teammates once again.
Stonehill Football Returns to W.B Mason Stadium on October 17th versus Duquesne following three long road trips to UMass Amherst, Ohio University, and Sacred Heart University.
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