The NC State women’s lacrosse team is kicking off the fall with a lot of practice and games. They plan to hone in their skills to prepare for the spring season, where they will be facing D1 competition for the first time.
Last year, the Wolfpack had a great record, and even went into regionals, according to senior attackman and president Lily Spence. With the upgrade from D2 to D1, she and the team look forward to the competition as well as coming together as a team.
“We’ve really improved on our bonding,” Spence said. “This, year we have a much bigger bonding budget. It helps us get to know each other better and helps us on the field.”
In addition to planning, Spence also coaches for the team. There is no official coach, which comes as a challenge, but allows much more freedom for the team. Spence mentioned taking the team on a few trips and creating more bonding experiences to bring the team closer.
Freshmen and new players are welcomed with open arms and given opportunities to show what they can bring to the team. New players enjoy the kindness and competitive atmosphere.
“I feel really close with the whole team,” said freshman defenseman Meredith Bateman. “I feel that it’s a really good group. Everyone is really nice and supportive, and they want the best out of everyone.”
Fall ball is meant more for fun play and addressing big issues, but is not super competitive. The Wolfpack has a few scrimmages against other teams, but the main season is in the spring, where the Wolfpack will officially start its D1 debut.
Communication has been an issue on the field. Especially for the defense, communication is crucial to know where the ball is at all times and how to react.
“This year, we’re trying to be a lot more communicative on the field; talk more, just so we know where the ball is,” said junior defenseman Rachel Santucci. “Our team is a lot closer this year; we’ve done a lot of team bonding. We know each other really well, and we’re good at working together.”
The fall season will last until November. Spence said as of now, there are 33 players on the competitive roster going into the spring season.
If you wish to support the women’s lacrosse club, they will have two fundraisers, according to Spence: one on Friday, Oct. 18, at Rush Bowls from 3-9 p.m. The second one will be on Nov. 18, at Chipotle from 5-9 p.m.
Fall Schedule for Women’s Club Lacrosse:
Oct 19, ECU Playday (Greenville)
Oct 27, Wake Forest game (Raleigh)
Nov 9, UNC Club Lax game (Raleigh)
Nov 17, High Point University game (High Point)
The NC State Women's Club Lacrosse team scrimmages on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019 at the Method Road Fields on NC State's campus. The women's club team plays in the Mid-Atlantic Women's Lacrosse League (MAWLL) and the Women's Collegiate Lacrosse Association (WCLA) and is a student-led club team.
