As the 2016 women's lacrosse season opener approaches, the Tigers are preparing for their most promising year yet. Even though the 2015 season had its ups and downs, Head Coach Julie Sargent has no doubt that the struggles of last season will be beneficial to the team moving forward.
“Last season was a good learning year,” Sargent said. They finished with a record of 7-9.
The Tigers are looking to kick off the upcoming season on a high note, and their dedication to training over the offseason should benefit their performance.
Upon returning to coach this spring, Sargent noticed immediately that this wasn’t the same team she coached last year. There were noticeable improvements across the board.
“their strength and endurance has definitely increased from the fall," she said.
In addition to exceeding their coach’s initial expectations for the offseason, players agreed that they exceeded their own expectations as well.
“I am really impressed by how much we all have been doing on our own," said sophomore attackman Emma Flynn. "I think we're coming into this season the most fit I've ever seen us.”
The Tigers lost two seniors this past season: midfielders Carey Kunz and Megan Morrison. Although they will be missed, Flynn said there are plenty of players on the team that have the potential to fill their shoes.
“One of the best parts of our team is how deep our roster really is. We have great attackers all across the line who are capable of putting up big points, and middies and defenders who can all make key stops,” Flynn said.
Returning starters on offense this year will include Flynn and junior midfielder Emily Denny. Returning starters on defense will be junior Stef Buffa and senior Abby Snively. Junior Liz Hawkins will be returning in the goal.
The Tigers' three senior captains this year will be Snively, attackman Elizabeth McCracken and midfielder/attackman Maryclaire Heldring.
The Tigers have nine first-year players on their roster coming into the season. Although they are the least experienced players, they are not being held to lower expectations.
“All of the first year players have amazed me with their talent and focus so far,” said junior Nicole Gibson. “We are so lucky to have them.”
The first year players expected to see the field most this year are defenseman Sarah Biely, midfielder Erica Rapelje, and midfielder/attackman Madi Lozanoski.
When asked if there were any freshman players expected to make a major impact this season, the answer from players and coaches alike was almost unanimous: Madi Lozanoski. Sargent said she is one of the best freshman players she has seen, and Gibson made it clear that Lozanoski will have a chance to prove herself in her very first game as a Tiger.
“She will likely take the draw for us this season and she is going to be a great addition to the midfield," Gibson said.
“She's incredibly versatile and quick on the field, with some great stick skills,” Flynn added.
The Tigers are looking to post their first winning record since the program was introduced in 2013. The depth of their roster should allow them to pursue and accomplish that goal.
The Tigers will open up their season on Sunday, Feb. 28 against Carthage. The opening faceoff is set for 11 a.m.