Fitchburg State Enters 2013 Season With Playoffs In Sight
The Fitchburg State women’s lacrosse team enters the 2013 season looking to build upon yet another playoff berth as the Falcons finished with an overall record of 7-10 and a 5-3 mark in the in the New England Women’s Lacrosse Alliance (NEWLA) last year.
This season, Fitchburg State transitions into the newly created MASCAC conference and sixth year head coach, Rick Terrio believes the Falcons are right where they need to be.
“This year, we were picked to finish third in the pre-season poll,” said Terrio. “I think fairly predicts where we should finish.”
Entering the 2013 season, the Fitchburg State women’s lacrosse has worked very hard, looking to take one game at a time. According to Terrio, health will be a major factor in the success of the Falcons.
“If everyone stays healthy we could have a very exciting season,” said Terrio. “We played very well in our scrimmage with Division II neighbor, Franklin Pierce, and we are looking to build off that momentum.”
Offensively, the Falcons are expecting a strong season from sophomore Lindsay White and senior Jessica Bartlett. Last year, the two combined for 112 points with 90 goals and 22 assists.
“Both Lindsay and Jessica have been tearing it up in pre-season,” said Terrio. “I also expect newcomer Julia Gimenez and veterans Chelsea Roberts and Amber Nunes to help contribute to the offense.”
On the defensive end, Fitchburg State returns four-year start Kayla Melville who will be relied upon to anchor the squad. Also returning are veterans, Sammi Gorman and Rebecca Malkin along with newcomers Leslie Jaffie, Sam Bontempo, and Kayla Bridges.
In the midfield, the Falcons return two starters as senior Kristin Dooley and junior Markie Apple lead the way. Stepping up to play midfield this season will also be two year defender Erin Murphy. Newcomers Stephanie Maki and Brianna Dunn are expected to come off the bench and provide some much needed depth.
Between the pipes, newcomer Liz Darrigo has come in strong, battling veteran Dylana Drolettefor the starting role. Darrigo’s arrival brings some stability to the position, along with newcomer Danielle Cormier.
The 2013 season appears to be very challenging for the Fitchburg State squad as the Falcon picked up some very tough non-league games. The Falcons open the year with Vassar College and Curry down in Florida, while also battling Plymouth State and Wheaton in non-conference contests up north.
The newly formed MASCAC lacrosse league will be very competitive, leaving no easy game from the top to the bottom of the league. The Falcons open up league play on Saturday March 30th as they host Bridgewater State University.