LEXINGTON, Va. — Washington and Lee University assistant field hockey coach
Blaine Donnelly has been named the head coach of the McDaniel College field hockey program, the institutions announced on Tuesday afternoon.
Donnelly departs Lexington after a highly successful four-season tenure on the Generals' coaching staff, during which Washington and Lee posted a 54–22 overall record and a 26–7 mark in ODAC play, while establishing itself as one of the top programs in Division III.
During her time at W&L, Donnelly helped guide the Generals to an ODAC Championship in 2022, an NCAA Tournament Second Round appearance, and a final No. 21 national ranking in the 2025 NFHCA Coaches' Poll. Across four seasons, W&L produced 26 All-ODAC selections, 12 NFHCA All-Region honorees, three NFHCA All-Senior Team selections, and two NFHCA All-Americans.
The 2022 season proved to be a historic one for the program, as W&L finished 17–3 overall and 7–1 in ODAC play, captured the conference title, and earned multiple national accolades. That year, the Generals also claimed ODAC Rookie of the Year, ODAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the ODAC Berkley Player Award, and a CSC Academic All-America honor.
In addition to competitive success, Donnelly supported a strong culture of academic excellence within the program. During her time at W&L, student-athletes earned 23 NFHCA Scholars of Distinction awards, along with two ODAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year honors.
Washington and Lee field hockey concluded the 2025 season with a 14–5 overall record and a 7–1 mark in conference play, earning eight All-ODAC selections and six NFHCA All-Region honors — tying an all-time program high.
"We are incredibly grateful for Blaine's impact on our program," said W&L Head Coach
Gina Wills. "Her leadership, attention to detail, and commitment to developing our student-athletes on and off the field have been instrumental to our success and growth for the program, we wish her nothing but the best at McDaniel."
"I am incredibly grateful to the Washington and Lee community and the field hockey program for the opportunity to be part of such a special place over the past four seasons," Donnelly said. "The relationships and experiences I gained here have been invaluable, and working alongside such dedicated student-athletes, coaches, and staff has been truly meaningful. I am especially thankful to Coach Wills and
Jan Hathorn for believing in me and supporting me throughout my time at W&L. This program and university will always hold a special place in my coaching journey."
Donnelly becomes the head coach at McDaniel College following one of the most accomplished stretches in Washington and Lee field hockey history, the program will conduct a national search for the next assistant coach.
Nestled in the mountains of Virginia, Washington and Lee University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Founded in 1749, W&L is the ninth-oldest college in the United States and a top-ranked liberal arts university. With over 500 student-athletes in 24 varsity sports, the Generals have celebrated over 265 conference championships. Learn more about the Blue and White by visiting www.generalssports.com or on social media at @WLUGenerals.
