By Dom Repposelli
Business and Distribution Manager
On Friday, Sept. 1, Washington College field hockey began their 2023 season on the road versus Stevenson University. In their bout with the Mustangs, the Shorewomen emerged victorious 1-0. This is the fourth straight season opening win for WC.
“Getting a road win to start the season was a good way to build confidence and showcase how hard we worked in preseason.” sophomore Julia Weglarz said.
Making their debut was first year goalie Charlotte Schurman. Schurman registered one save in the effort while the WC defense only allowed three shots from Stevenson.
“I’ve been working hard all preseason, so it meant a lot to start in the season opener because it means my hard work is paying off,” Schurman said.
The Shorewomen also won the shot and penalty corner differential. WC took 14 shots to the Mustang’s three. In addition, the Shorewomen took four penalty corners compared to three from the Mustangs.
Weglarz added that these chances aid in winning not just this game, but any contest. “I believe every offensive advantage contributes to the ending outcome in a positive way. Being able to capitalize during stressful situations portrayed our hard work,” Weglarz said.
A Shorewomen goal in the fourth quarter served as the only one in the contest. A connection between sophomores Faye Dorman and Brynn Balliet resulted in the go-ahead goal. Dorman registered her first assist in her time at WC, and Balliet recorded her second career goal and first of the season.
“We controlled the tempo and pace of the game. We maintained possession and created scoring opportunities,” Balliet said.
The game was also the first win for first year head coach Alex Calder. Calder would record her first home win in a Sunday morning contest versus the visiting DePauw University Lions.
The Shorewomen picked up another shutout victory in their home opener with a 1-0 victory over the Lions. The WC defense served as crucial components in the outing as they held the Lions attack to just three shots on goal and one penalty corner while sending 26 shots of their own.
Sophomore MaryCate Anson picked up GooseNation TV Player of the Game honors with her goal in the opening quarter off a WC penalty corner attempt. The goal kept WC in the lead for the duration of the contest in their 1-0 victory.
Their slate of non-conference games continues with a home contest versus Salisbury University Sept. 6. “Playing against a variety of teams outside of [Centennial Conference] will help show us parts of our game we need to work on and what areas we are successful in,” said Weglarz.
The team will not return for a home game until Sept. 13 against Catholic University at Kibler Field.
Photo caption: Sophomore midfielder MaryCate Anson pushes the pace against DePauw University.
Photo courtesy of WC Athletics