Wildcats' Latest Chapter Begins Saturday

Saturday, February 11

High Point, NC

2 p.m.

Davidson College Athletics

High Point

Photo by: Dani Gariglio

2/10/2023 4:24:00 PM | Women's Lacrosse

davidsonphotos.com

The most exciting chapters of Davidson lacrosse's history have been written over the last two years, with a new campaign set to begin Saturday afternoon.

After a 2020 season that was canceled before it ever really began, the Wildcats came back in 2021 and 2022 with a vengeance and urgency like never before. The program picked up its first-ever win over a ranked opponent, a Coach of the Year title, one Rookie of the Year honor, two semifinal appearances, a dozen All-Conference awards, 11 wins in 2021 and another program-best 13 in 2022.

So what's left? Perhaps, an Atlantic 10 final appearance, a trophy to be lifted, a name in the NCAA's field of 29 come May?

"Last year was an exciting year for the program," said head coach Kim Wayne. "We broke records and accomplished more in one season than we have ever done before. Losing nine seniors is tough, but the legacy they left behind has done wonders for the current team. I know our current senior class is excited to build off the foundation that we've worked so hard to build."

The first step begins on Saturday, Feb. 11, as the 'Cats meet a High Point University team that has become their regional-rival of sorts over these last two seasons.

While the Panthers hold the all-time series at a 5-4 advantage, Davidson has come out on top in the last two meetings, including an overtime classic in 2021, when Amanda Monahan made a game-saving stop in the extra period before Sam Rippley beat High Point's goalie in a one-on-one to win the thriller, 15-14.

In this season's matchup, the Wildcats will rely heavily on a veteran attack and seasoned defense, including senior captains Grace Fahey and Erin Cooke.

"We're fortunate to have Grace and Erin on our attack, in addition to Julianne Carey and Josie Lambert, who have all stepped up and are ready to take their games even further," Wayne added. "Erin and Julianne were honored by the A-10 coaching body for their accomplishments last year, but Grace is just as deserving when it comes to work ethic, value, and overall production with goals and assists. Josie is entering her sophomore year and has become one of our biggest threats when she's confident. I'm excited to see their leadership play out throughout the season."

Before starting their pursuit for an Atlantic 10 title, Davidson will take on seven non-conference opponents, including playing host to the Duke Blue Devils, who are receiving rankings as high as 11th in multiple preseason polls, in their home opener on Feb. 15.

When the page turns to conference play in mid-March, the Wildcats' calendar will prove to be just as challenging, as perennial league powers and preseason ranked No. 22 Richmond and No. 23 UMass pay visits to Richardson Stadium for the first time since 2019.

With a defense composed entirely of upperclassmen, and a backfield that ranked 19th nationally in scoring defenses (10.39 goals per game), the Wildcats return their star goalkeeper, Monahan, and First Team All-Conference and two-time preseason All-Conference defender Noelle Cegielski. In addition to the duo, senior Margaret Anne Warner has become a threat on the draw and someone whose speed could beat any opponent.

"Our defense is spearheaded by Amanda and Margaret Anne, but we are also returning three junior starters in Noelle, Morgan O'Brien and Alyssa Natoli," Wayne noted. "And with the addition of Brynn Jones, who saw a lot of time off the bench last season, our veteran lineup is one that is aggressive, smart and works really well together."

After graduating three starting middies, the 'Cats will look to a youthful but explosive lineup capable of playing both ends of the field. All-Rookie selection Riley Moore will lead the charge, with the help of upperclassmen Molly Murphy and Sophia Passalaqua, in addition to rookies Allie Hartnett and Shayna Brodman, who can provide a spark and depth to the midfield.

To keep up with the Wildcats this season, tune in to @DavidsonLax on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.