The Ashland University Women’s Lacrosse team opened their season this week playing against Quincy at a neutral-site game at Thomas Moore on Friday, Feb. 14.
Quincy had the lead on the Eagles in the first quarter with a score of 4-3; however, the Eagles pulled through in the last three periods for an Eagles victory with a final score of 20-11.
Ashley Fisher, junior midfielder, scored seven points for the Eagles with three goals and four assists. Junior attacker, Rachel Crumbacher, added six points with five goals and one assist, while sophomore attacker, Ashley Drexler contributed five points with two goals and three assists.
The Eagles’ offense had six players with assists, eight different goal scorers, and ten players with at least one point.
This season opener showcases the Eagles’ drive for this season. Last season was not ideal for the Eagles. Finishing with a record of 11-8, they missed out on the G-MAC championship in the semi-finals. Missing the championship lit a fire under the team for this season.
Head Coach, Lauren Smiko, found that, “[f]alling short of our goal has motivated them to put in the work this year. They came back motivated and inspired to take on the G-MAC. Last year, we learned a lot about who we are as a squad, and where we want to be. I give a lot of credit to the players. They are the most focused I have seen them, and they are putting in the work.”
The team has spent the offseason preparing for this season with the goal of competing for the GMAC championship.
One of the team captains, Fiona Dadas, says, “[a]fter months of offseason preparation, I hope to see my team fully display the hard work and time we’ve invested in the sport as we face our largest competitions. Each year, the team dynamic changes, and we are incredibly fortunate to have a group this year that is so dedicated and committed to winning a G-MAC championship! My hope for them is that they can see the fruits of their labor when it comes to our biggest competitions.”
The Eagles’ will continue toward their goal with their home opener taking place on Saturday, Feb. 22 at noon on Ferguson Field.
