The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse team received votes for the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Pre-Season Poll.

During last season, the Lakers won 12 games on their way to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Tournament.

Some players to look for this season are junior Rebecca Himes who leads the team with 35 assists and 74 points, along with senior Anna LeGrett who trails Himes with 72 points and 27 assists.

“I think the team will be very successful this year. We have been working very hard through an intense pre-season. Overall, we’ve seen our stick work and offensive and defensive skills improve tremendously and we are working together well,” Himes said.

The Lakers lost three seniors last season, and gained five freshmen and added three transfers from St. Bonaventure University.

“They all had a successful fall and winter with the team, particularly in the way they have added intensity both on offense and defense. They definitely keep the competition within the team high, helping to push everyone on the team to be better,” Himes said.

The Lakers face four programs featured in the top-15 in this upcoming season. They look forward to playing at Le Moyne on March 10 and at West Chester on March 29.
Mercyhurst then heads to Lock Haven on April 9, followed by IUP on April 15.

“We lost three seniors last year who all had a huge role on the team, but we have already seen many individuals step up and take leadership roles this year.

“It’s definitely different not having them here every day, but as we move into our new roles it’s been clear that we will be able to easily absorb the loss of those three seniors,” Himes said.

The Lakers will open the 2014 season against Roberts Wesleyan on March 5 at 4 p.m. on Tullio Field.

“The biggest goal for myself and the team this year is to win the PSAC championship. Since our practices thus far have been so successful, I really do believe that we can win it all. We all have our eyes set on the PSAC Championship. We have the talent, depth, and drive to be successful throughout the season, and we just need to keep working hard, being intense and believe we can do it,” Himes said.