While UMBC suffered an intense snowstorm this past weekend, the women’s lacrosse team was still able to keep their composure and win the first game of their season in Jacksonville, Florida.

“The sunny, breezy, warm weather was a lot different from what we are used to since it has been so cold back home,” said coach Kelly Berger. “Luckily, we were able to take advantage of the beautiful weather and play our game.

Berger also mentioned that she was very proud of her player’s focus while dealing with the stress the snow storm brought to UMBC. Apparently, the Retrievers were very focused, beating the Jacksonville Dolphins 18-2.

Junior Erika Braerman led the Retrievers squad with six points; four goals and two assists. Also, junior midfielders: Kristen Milligan, Amanda Pappas, and Ashley Stodter all contributed to UMBC’s victory scoring three goals each. UMBC’s senior goalie Kate Quick was also a key component in UMBC’s victory, only allowing two goals into her cage as the UMBC women’s lacrosse team won the game at the Dolphins’ D.B. Milne Field.

“As a senior, I can rely on Kate to keep her head in the game,” said Berger.

This weekend marked Berger’s first game as a head coach for the Retrievers. Also, ironically, it was the first game in the history of Jacksonville’s women’s lacrosse program. However, despite the hype that the Dolphin’s brought to their first game, the Retrievers were till able to triumph. The Retrievers ground ball play may be the reason why these women were so successful in Florida.

“I was proud of the hustle my players brought to Jacksonville. It really showed with ground balls as we broke down the fundamentals of the game,” said Berger.

The women’s lacrosse team had a great experience in Jacksonville, and will hopefully have a lot more as their season continues. They were happy to make it back to UMBC safely with all the harsh weather conditions surrounding them. The women’s lacrosse team is looking forward to getting better this week until their next game, when they will travel south to Fairfax, Virginia in order to play George Mason.

Comments can be sent to mry1@umbc.edu.