The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse team has started the year with a 3-1 record. The only loss has come against nationally ranked Limestone College. The Lakers have won against Queens University (Charlotte), Seton Hill University and Lake Erie College.

The team welcomes 11 freshmen for the 2013 season. These 11 join a young squad comprised of only three seniors. Alisha Catalino, a native of Webster, N.Y., Kayla Minner, a native of Lockport, N.Y., and Brittany Tucker, a native of Las Vegas, Nev.

“The freshmen are extremely hard workers. They not only take feedback and apply it to their game, but they take it to heart,” said Catalino. “Their hard work and intensity makes everyone fight for a spot on the field which ultimately amps the atmosphere at practice.”

Catalino noted tough Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) competition would be fought against Bloomsburg, Gannon, and Lock Haven.

“Those three have always been our tougher games,” said Catalino. “Although they will be tough games, every game will be tough and we have to continue to play together to defeat any opponent.”

The Lakers were ranked No. 14 in the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) preseason poll and picked to finish fourth in the PSAC.

Sophomore Rebecca Himes returns after leading the team with 52 goals and 65 points. Anna LeGrett recorded 37 goals and a team-high 21 assists, while Minner added 27 goals. Catalino scored 34 goals and compiled 95 draw controls, becoming the school’s career record holder.

“We will be very successful if we keep pushing ourselves everyday in practice,” said Catalino. “Our team chemistry is there, everyone is focused and in it to win it.”

The Lakers will look to continue their success against Tiffin University on Friday, March 22, at 4 p.m. on Tullio Field. The Lakers begin home PSAC play on March 26 at 4 p.m. against Slippery Rock.