2008 Field Hockey Season Preview

The New Paltz women’s field hockey team will have a new look in 2008 as first year coach Elizabeth Saucier takes over the helm. The Hawks posted a record of 5-13 in 2007.

New Paltz’s strength should be on offense as sophomore Lauren Nicomini, who placed second on the team in scoring in 2007 with 13 points on four goals and a team high five assists, and classmate Sarah Schloss, who added four goals and three assists, will lead the attack.  Junior Kristen Bergmann will join the pair on the starting offensive line. Jillian Cararchio, Marissa Costello, Jennifer Dietz, and Meghan Flynn all return to the front line and will add a spark off the bench.

In the midfield, New Paltz starts 2007 first team All-SUNYAC and second team all-region selection, Jess Moore, who led the team with seven goals and 18 points last season. Junior Kristen Donnelly returns to the midfield after starting all 18 games last season and sophomore Alyssa Finck, should aid the Hawks transition offense. First years Corry Almeida and Maryana Orginidis will support the midfield and see playing time.

New Paltz is very deep in the back, including returning starters Ann Marie Rudd, who started 18 games last year and sophomore Kristy Amendola, had 15 starting assignments in 2007. Junior Emmi van den Boom will join the pair in the starting backfield. Kelly Brogan, Mary Grace Hamme, Heather McCoy, Courtney Merton and Gretchen Tucker will compete for playing time off the bench.

In goal, sophomores Grace Watson and Elizabeth Dini will compete for playing time. Watson posted a .769 save percentage and Dini posted 50 saves nine starts last season. Junior Liz Tong will pressure Watson and Dini for playing time.

New Paltz opens their season by hosting Drew on Wednesday, September 3rd at 4:00 p.m.