Aug. 24, 2010

PHILADELPHIA - Led by returning all-conference selections Beth Carey and Rebecca Chylack, the La Salle field hockey team is in its second week of preseason camp in preparation for Sunday's season and home opener versus Rider. For a preview of the team, including video footage, continue reading.

"Preseason has gone very well," second year head coach Michelle Marks said. "We did well at our scrimmage on Saturday and now in our second week, we are building to prepare for Rider."

Carey and Chylack, which tied for the team lead with 25 points last season, pace the offense. Carey earned second team All-Atlantic 10 honors last season, while Chylack picked up a first team citation and A-10 Rookie of the Year last year.

Seniors Rachel Deaner and Emma Ruth anchor the defense. Deaner started all 20 games last season in the back field, while Ruth led the Atlantic 10 with 138 saves.

Marks also returns several talented upperclassmen, including Lindsay Fry, Gabrielle Nolt and Katelyn Haney, all who started 20 games last season. Two sophomores that were named Atlantic 10 All-Rookie, Neelam Kumar and Janel Paukovits, are back along with a deep freshman class.

La Salle opens its season on Sunday at 2 PM versus Rider at DeVincent Field. The Explorers then embark on a month-long, six-game roadtrip before returning to 20th and Olney.