NEW PALTZ, NY — The New Paltz women’s field hockey team will look to continue the building process in 2007 after posting a 6-12 record in 2006 under third year head coach Jessica Kulesa.
Sophomore Kristen Bergmann (Massapequa), who posted three assists in 2006, and senior Danielle Smith (Selden/Newfield), who played in all 18 games last year, will pace the Hawk offense. First years Lauren Nicomini (Newton, NJ/Kittatinny Regional) and Sarah Schloss (Brant Lake/North Warren) will join Bergmann and Smith on the forward line. In addition, Kulesa’s depth on the forward line is excellent with juniors Megan Flynn (Massapequa), Marissa Costello (Brick, NJ/Brick Township), transfer Jillian Carfarchio (Washingtonville), and first year Jennifer Dietz (Kingston).
Sophomore Kristen Donnelly (Nichols/Oswego Free Academy) who had a goal and an assist last year, will anchor the Hawks midfield with first years Jess Moore (Walden/Pine Bush) and Kelly Brogan (Farmingville/Sachem East). Kulesa expects good production from junior transfer Caitlin Ryder (Hopewell Junction/John Jay) and first year Alyssa Finck (Hudson/Ichabod Crane).
Senior Robin Albis (Hopewell Junction/John Jay) and sophomore AnnMarie Rudd (Garden City Park/New Hyde Park) return to the defensive line. Rudd, who played in all 18 games last season, will center the circle control. Albis, along with first year Kristy Amendola (Brewster) will patrol the outsides. Heather McCoy (Sayville/Connetquot) and Gretchen Tucker (Willington, CT/Edwin O. Smith) will provide depth to the backfield.
Sophomore Jessica Malone (Gongers/Clarkstown North), and first years Elizabeth Dini (Sayville) and Grace Watson (Bayville/Locust Valley) will compete for the starting goalkeeper position. Malone played in three games last season and posted 25 saves for a .694 save percentage. The starter will be based upon performance in practice leading up to the practice.
The Hawks open their season by hosting Hartwick on Saturday, September 1 at 1:00 p.m.
