Feb. 22, 2008
The 2008 edition of the La Salle women's lacrosse team presents an interesting mix of experience and youth. 11 letter winners return for the Explorers, who will also add 11 new faces into the mix.
Among those returning are senior Emily Bonczek, who has led the Explorers in goals each of the past three years, as well as the 2007 Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year, sophomore Jill Davis. In addition to leading the Explorers, Bonczek placed fifth in the A-10 with 40 goals last season and was second on the team in total points with 42. Davis finished second on the team in both goals (24) and assists (six).
The Explorers return another top scorer from 2007 in sophomore Stefany McKee. In her rookie year, McKee tallied 15 goals and four assists.
With the 2008 season set to start, head coach Julie Weiss answers several questions surrounding her team:
This year's roster is comprised mostly of underclassmen. Have you seen the seniors take on more of a leadership role this preseason?
The seniors are hungrier than ever. As it goes for all seniors, this is their last shot and they are definitely playing like they have something to prove, which they do. Our new class of ten freshmen have brought new levels of energy, enthusiasm and talent to the field. Not to go unmentioned, our sophomores, after going through one year in the collegiate ranks, have grown tremendously and are starting to emerge as true leaders.
How has the freshmen class adjusted to the college game thus far? How do you expect them to react once the season gets underway and what do you hope to see from them by the time the A-10 season begins?
Our freshmen class is extremely competitive. They want to win and they are willing to do whatever it takes to do so. They not only adjusted well in the fall, they stood out and will surely play a big role for us this season. Once April roles around, we expect our entire team to be peaking for conference play.
Going into the season, what is the team's greatest strength?
I believe our greatest strength is the combination of our youth and our experience. Coming off a season that left much to be desired, many teams will look past us, which I believe gives us the advantage.
What does the team need to do to be successful this season?
We will need everyone to contribute. Our key players to consistently produce and we will also need some surprise breakout performances.
How does this team compare to other La Salle teams you have coached in the past?
I believe we have the talent to beat any team on our schedule. More importantly, the dynamic of this team is exciting because the possess a different attitude then teams of past. They are more mentally tough - and to be successful at the Division I level in such a strong conference as the Atlantic 10, mental toughness becomes the deciding factor.
The Explorers open the season this Sunday when they travel to Colgate. Game time is 1:00 PM.
