In 2008, the Vanderbilt women's lacrosse squad earned 13 wins, a school record. However, the season ended in disappointment, as then-eighth-ranked Princeton University ended the Commodores' run in the first round of the NCAA tournament, by a final tally of 14-10.
They haven't forgotten.
"Since we graduated seven starters last year, most top programs don't expect very much from us," said sophomore defender Claire Leonard. "But, I know that we will prove to everyone that this is not a down year for us, even though we are young."
Ranked 12th in the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association preseason poll, the Commodores complete in the intense American Lacrosse Conference. Defending National Champions since 2005, the Wildcats of Northwestern University lead the ALC. Two other top-15 teams include Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins, with Ohio State and Penn State on the cusp of the top-20.
"We have a very tough schedule so almost every game is a ‘key game,' but the University of North Carolina game, this Sunday, is vital," Leonard said. "It will allow us to set the tone for our entire season, earn the top programs' respect and show the country that this is not a rebuilding year."
Spearheading the attack for the Commodores will be senior Cara Giordano and junior Carter Foote. The play of Giordano, an IWLCA all-American, and Foote last spring earned each a position on the preseason ALC all-conference team heading into 2009. Midfielder Sarah Downing, who started every contest last year, will help orchestrate the offensive operations.
"Cara Giordano, a senior captain, is a very passionate leader that is going to contribute a lot on both sides of the field," Leonard said. "Juniors Sarah Downing and Carter Foote and sophomore Katherine Denkler are going to be incredibly effective on the attack."
To help support the efforts of the upperclassmen, the Commodores brought in an exceptional recruiting class, led by Baltimore Sun Player of the Year Ally Carey. Moreover, several of the frosh hail from state championship teams, including Kendall Pittinger (Maryland), Hannah Clark (Pennsylvania) and sisters Kacie and Kelly Connors (New Jersey).
"Our freshmen are also impressive and will definitely contribute all over the field," Leonard said.
The freshmen will have to learn quickly, for juggernaut Northwestern visits Nashville in the Commodores' third game in late February. Then, through the first three weeks of March, the following five-game road trip features dates at Boston University and Duke, ranked 10th and third, respectively.
Nonetheless, the outlook is positive for the Commodores.
"I am really excited for this season because I think we are going to surprise a lot of teams with our speed, talent and team chemistry," Leonard said.
Behind strong upperclassmen leadership and talented freshmen, Vanderbilt could certainly surprise many of its foes. The Commodores aim to not only improve upon the 13 victories, but also run deeper into the NCAA tournament this May.
