A team of overachievers in 1988, Mary Washington College hopes the spirit continues in 1989. After losing 11 of 12 starters from a 12-4 team which finished the season

15th in NCAA Division III in 1987, the Eagles still managed a 7-8 record last year (after an 0-4 start). With a solid core of that unit returning, MWC could again rise into a prominent force in Eastern small college lacrosse.

Junior attacker Suzy Baughman - a first-team All-Region and honorable mention All-American last season -leads the MWC offense. She scored a team high 49 goals and added 10 assists in 1988 ... she and Courtney Leonard (nine goals in 1988) will spearhead the attack. Baughman and sophomore Liz Wheeler were selected to compete in the USWlA South District Tournament (predominantly a collection of top Division I players). They'll be counted upon for production and leadership roles vacated by last year's captain Leslie Whitener, second leading scorer Emily Nack (22 goals) and goaltender Kris Neary (167 saves in 1988, .579 save percentage) .

Seniors Katherine Fink, Jennie Roak (who missed last season to study abroad) and Melissa Grant will team with Wheeler for what should be a solid defense. Junior Jennifer Payne and freshman Heather Cook will vie for goaltending duties.

"This team is very excited to start the season," said head coach Beth Hollibaugh. "We have a strong, experienced defense which will be our main asset until our offense gets used to working with each other."

The MWC regular season opens March 11-12 at the Hollins College Tournament. After road games against Sweet Briar and Salisbury State, the Eagles open their home season March 23 against Lynchburg.