Two of the strongest university field hockey programs across the country met up on Tuesday, August 23 in Vancouver to begin a three-game exhibition series.

The defending OUA champion, Varsity Blues travelled west to Vancouver to take on the British Columbia Thunderbirds, who hold the title of most national championships in U SPORTS history.

In what was a tightly contested match-up, the Thunderbirds ultimately came away with a 1-0 victory to open the pre-season series.

Toronto, who has the third most national titles, will return to action against the Thunderbirds again on August 24 with the match scheduled for 9:00 pm (EST), before battling UBC once more on August 26.

The Blues will then return home for their invitational tournament from September 9-11. U of T will open the home portion of their OUA schedule on September 18 against Queen's.

For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite U of T athletes and teams, please visit www.varsityblues.ca. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for the latest and greatest in Varsity Blues intercollegiate athletics.