Caitlin Dorsch ~ Copy Desk Chief
After losing to Randolph-Macon College in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) semifinals in May 2018, the women’s lacrosse team is out for revenge. Overall, the Lady Hornets finished the season at a respectable nine wins, eight losses (with six wins, two losses in the conference).
They are looking to surprise their opponents and make a name for themselves. One of the main reasons that the players know their potential is because of their team chemistry and close-knit culture off of the field. Senior midfielder, Kayleigh Ridgley, describes the team as her “second family.” She insists that the team is “always there for each other on and off the field.”
This coming season, the Lady Hornets are looking to develop play quickly and attack constantly. According to ODAC statistics, the team’s attack scored 216 goals total with an astonishing 12.71 average amount of goals per game. Ridgley mentioned that, with eight seniors and six first-years on the team this year, the team is looking to use both experience and new talents to excel to the top of the ODAC. Since the end of their season in May last year, the team has worked tirelessly to start off their season on a high note. “We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and we know how to capitalize on them. I think we’re are going to crush it this season,” says Ridgley. Because of the strength and conditioning sessions by Coach Edward Smith during the fall and the constant on-the-field practices, the team feels ready for their first opponent.
Senior goalkeeper Lauren Bodamer explained that this preseason had been a cold one, but the Lady Hornets have shown true tenacity and effort by continuing with their grueling preseason schedule amidst the weather. Moreover, she added, “I think so far, the work that we are doing in our preseason is really going to benefit us in the long run.”
The UofL Lady Hornets first game is Saturday (Feb. 9, 2019) with a scrimmage at home on Shellenberger Field versus Southern Virginia University and Catawba College at 4 p.m. Their first match will be played at Mary Washington University on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 at 12 p.m.
Please come out to cheer on the Lady Hornets!
