New head coach helps launch lacrosse ladies to success

Under the leadership of new Head Coach Cynthia Moore, the University of Mary Washington’s women’s lacrosse team looks poised for continued success, so long as they follow their season motto of “All in.”

Moore is now in her fourth year as head coach, having spent her first three at Randolph-Macon University.

“The commitment that motto suggests is the expectation that each player always brings her ‘A Game.’ The team really takes this to heart; I have seen it not only on game day, but in every aspect of our preparation for the season,” said Moore.

Moore, originally from Cypress, Texas graduated from UMW with a degree in business administration in 2008 and her MBA in 2012.

She graduated as the UMW career leader in points with a total of 303, was the single season record holder in points with 143 and the single season record holder in assists with 81. Moore also held single game records for assists with 10, and points with 14.

The team opened the season with a 16-9 victory over Shenandoah University, led by senior attacker Jenna Petrucelli’s six goals. They lost the second game of their season on Saturday, Feb. 22 to Washington & Lee University 12-5.

To address the team’s woes from the loss, Moore said the team really focused on communication, situational decisions and quality shots. In the season opener, the women’s team dominated in turnovers and draw controls.

However, the game against Washington & Lee was a different story, as the team committed 17 turnovers and lost the draw control battle 12-7. Before Wednesday’s game against Lynchburg College, Moore added, “Our team is prepared and excited for our game today.”

Last season’s team finished the season with a 14-8 record, losing in the first round of the CAC Tournament to York University 12-5.

“The CAC is getting tougher with the national recognition our conference is receiving…, it’s going to be very important for us to be ready to open up conference play in March,” said Moore.

CAC conference play begins for the women’s team on March 15 at Southern Virginia University.

Midfielder Megan Gersbeck and defender Priscilla Smith, both senior captains, drew praise from their new coach.

“They’ve done a tremendous job of helping to create a unified voice and supporting our shared vision amongst the team. Megan and Priscilla’s solid efforts are complimented by several other team leaders who’ve stepped up over the course of the preseason,” said Moore.

The women’s team has five players with multiple goals already this season, including juniors midfielder Emily Atkinson, who has three goals and an assist, and junior attacker Corinne Wiederkehr ,with four goals and an assist.

“We have a talented team, but more importantly we have a group that’s been more than willing to do the work it takes to be successful,” said Moore.

The team will play again during spring break on Saturday, March 8 at 2 p.m.