Wittenberg University Women¹s Lacrosse is poised for a banner 2001 season as 12 letterwinners return to face a challenging schedule. Strong senior leadership and a talented group of underclassmen give reason for such optimism. Head Coach Nancy Beck, who is in her 15th season, believes this will be a breakthrough year for the Tigers. "I am excited about our combination of returning players and talented newcomers who have shown outstanding promise in scrimmages. The season is certain to be filled with challenges, but our team goal of success in the NCAC is definitely attainable," Beck stated.
The Tigers return a strong group of letterwinners dedicated to success. The defense will be anchored by senior Danielle Paglino (Troy, Mich./Marian), who led the team in caused turnovers with 29, and sophomore Cara Romanowski (Collegeville, Pa./Perkiomen Valley), who started every game in 2000 and was selected to the All-NCAC team as a freshman. Sophomore Lindsay Law (Columbus, Ohio/Dublin Scioto) will move from the midfield to defense to direct the action around the crease. In the goal cage, contributions are expected from junior Sarah Cook (Charleston, WV/George Washington) and freshman Erin Mowrey (Toledo, Ohio/St. Ursula).
The midfield will be anchored by senior Jennie Stone (Damascus, Md./Damascus), whose versatility allows her to contribute both offensively and defensively. Also looking to lead the transition game is senior Cereescia Sandoval (Lawrenceburg, Ky./Tates Creek) and junior Becca Porter (Rochester, NY/Irondequoit).Strong performances are also expected from sophomore Annie Richard (Wooster, Ohio/Wooster) and Christie Rose (Wooster, Ohio/Wooster), both of whom made a successful transition to the college game in 2000 and will make significant contributions this season.
On the attacking end of the field, senior Kati Robbins (Collegeville, Pa./Methacton) will control the play action. Robbins led the team in goals and assists in 2000 and has been selected as an All-NCAC player and Regional All-American each season. Also contributing to the Tigers scoring drive will be junior Erin Jacobsen (Fairport, NY/Penfield), junior Juliette Gordon (Columbus, Ohio/Upper Arlington) and sophomore Mollie Stone (Damascus, Md./Damascus). In 2000, Jacobsen chipped in 29 goals while Gordon and Stone played in every game and maintained a 50% shooting for the season.
Newcomers are vital to the potential success of the Tigers in 2001. In the midfield, strong performances are expected from freshmen Carrie Monrotus(Kirkwood, Mo./Kirkwood), Kate Williston (Wooster, Ohio/Wooster), Katie Babcock (Phoenix,Md./Dulaney) and Christine Slone (Grosse Point, Mich./Grosse Point South). On attack, sophomore Jill Hobelman (St. Louis, Mo./Villa Duchesne) will look to improve with each game in 2001.