Photo from BattlingBishops.com
The women’s lacrosse team has a fresh start this season with new Head Coach Chelsea Huguenard, accompanied by new assistant coach Jim Leake.
After a 3-11 last season, the team hopes to get back on track and has set high expectations for this year.
Huguenard, who was previously head girls lacrosse coach at Olentangy High School, hopes to bring motivation and positivity to the team.
“This team has the talent and drive to win games,” she said.
“They work well together on and off the field. We want to finish in the top four of our conference, and get a chance to play in the NCAC conference tournament.”
Players also have high expectations for the season.
Sophomore attack Meghan Doherty is eager to get the season started and believes the team’s hard work during the preseason will pay off.
“I am optimistic that our team has the talent and drive to make it deep into the post season,” said Doherty.
“We currently have a low NCAC preseason ranking but I see us as an underdog.”
Junior defense Eilee Foley believes that the team’s leadership will help guide them to more wins this season.
“All of our players lead us in some way,” said Foley. “For example, (senior)Jenna Ortega is one of the team’s strongest motivators and (senior) Cate Bailey and (senior) Theresa Wolfgang help run the mid-field.
“You have (sophomore) Patricia Ryan on attack leading the way and setting pace, and back on defense you have (senior) Steph Martineau and (junior) Sara Lawrence playing some of the best defense. Another example is (junior) Abbie Love, who helps transition the ball really well from defense to attack.”
Huguenard’s enthusiasm and determination have spread throughout the team according to senior defense player, Jenna Ortega.
“She is fully involved in our team and there for us when we need her,” she said. “She believes in us and makes us work to our potential.”
“I believe myself and my assistant Coach Leake have showed them we can be successful this season,” Huguenard said.
“That will be put to the test when we open with Otterbein March 5th.”