Mercyhurst’s women’s soccer team left last year’s season with a rocky 7-10-1 overall record, but with a younger team and the addition of 10 new freshmen this year, 5 of them starting, they are looking forward to making this season one to never forget.

The team is currently 3-1, with their only loss being to Slippery Rock last Wednesday, 0-5. They are currently ranked 6th in NSCAA Athletic Region Poll.

Coach Keith Cammidge is optimistic with the team’s progress so far.

“I am really pleased with this year so far. We had a large group of freshman coming in, but this is one of the best freshman classes that I’ve had. We’re working hard, and trying to lay the foundation of a great season,” Coach Cammidge says.

One player that is stepping up her game on the field is freshman goal-keeper Ellie McDougall. With achieving PSAC player of the week and blocking shots as starting goal-keeper, she is making a lasting impact on the team.

“Being a freshman on the field was scary at first, but after the first forty five minutes you develop a comfort. The girls have made it really easy with the transition though and I’m really grateful for that,” McDougall says.

The Lakers are working hard, practicing hard, and are looking forward to regaining a solid team. With senior captain Olivia Resch, they are building the foundations for an unforgettable season.

“We are very competitive with each other, we are always talking and trying to push each other to new limits, and it is always one more sprint or one more goal. Just a lot motivation and always expecting more from each other,” McDougall says.

“Our goal is to not be in the same situation this year as last, we want a winning season and hopefully make it to conference play off. There are only 18 games in just 12 weeks so we don’t have a lot of breathing space in between games, so we really need to step it up this year, and we are doing just that,” Coach Cammidge says.

With 5 starting freshman, and hard-working upperclassmen, the Lakers are looking forward to keeping their winning record against East Stroudsburg and Bloomsburg University this weekend.

“This year is going to be a process; we are looking good, and practicing well. We have a lot of potential not only now, but in future years. I am looking forward to watching my team grow into a bigger threat in the years to come,” McDougall says.

The Lakers next home game is scheduled for September 19 against Mansfield University.