After four consecutive record-breaking seasons, the 2007 University of Mary Washington men’s lacrosse team will look to return to the top of the South region in 2007 after a somewhat disppointing season in 2006. From 2002 to 2005, the Eagles recorded 40 wins, broke the school record for victories in a season with 11 in 2002, achieved their first national ranking ever in 2004, and defeated several top-10-ranked opponents along the way. Despite falling to 4-9 a season ago, UMW still achieved a first for the program, as the Eagles defeated nationally ranked Hampden-Sydney College for the first time ever.
A talented group returns for 2007, led by sophomore Sean Brown and senior Matt Morrell, who rank as the leading returning scorers from last year’s team. Brown, who stands 6’4”, scored 14 goals and added six assists as a freshman last season, including a team-leading three man-up goals. Morrell netted 11 goals from the midfield.
Other returnees of note include attackman Dan Punaro, midfielders Tommy Park (47 ground balls), Brent Fisk (two goals, four assists), face off specialist Matt Richman-Raphael, Matt Weiss, Scott Fletcher (three goals, one assist), and Keith Sweeney (five goals, one assist), and defenders Sterling Montague, Peter Lytle. Defenders Gabe Butler and Brad Matson also return after missing last season, and they will bolster a young defense.
Eric Everitt returns in goal, with newcomer Chris Simonin looking to earn minutes as well. The Eagles will be tested by the 2007 schedule, as national powers Roanoke College and Hampden-Sydney College open the slate. In addition, UMW will traverse the always-tough Capital Athletic Conference, with top-ranked Salisbury University, St. Mary’s College, and York College highlighting a league schedule that includes new conference member Hood College. Nonconference games against Randolph-Macon College, McDaniel College, Christopher Newport University, and Washington & Jefferson College will also allow the Eagles to test their mettle against some of the most competitive squads in the region.