Posted: Aug 25, 2022

Field Hockey Picked 10th in LEC Pre-Season Coaches Poll

SALEM, Mass. – Salem State field hockey was picked 10^th by the coaches in the Little East Field Hockey Pre-Poll, released on Thursday, August 25. The Vikings, who finished 7^th last season received (36) points. Keene State was the overwhelming favorite, compiled 134 points with six first place votes while defending champion Eastern Connecticut was slated just behind, picking up 132 votes – five first place votes.

SEASON OUTLOOK

The Vikings will begin 2022 with a new head coach after the departure of Stephanie Rouse after eight seasons. Women's lacrosse coach Karen Atkinson will take on dual coaching responsiblities, starting her inaugural campaign with a seasoned core of returning players, who had opportunities last season to finish better than their 8-10 mark, which included a 6-6 league record. Salem State lost a heartbreaker in the final minute to second seed Worcester State in the LEC Quarterfinals last year, which should motivate this year's team, and give them confidence that they can compete with the top teams in the league.

Salem State returns a trio of experienced players, including tri-captains Melanie Mason, Mikayla Mason and Kaylan Harkins. All three were named to the Little East All-Conference Team a season ago. Second team selection Melanie Mason, tallied 18 points last year, while third team selection Mikayla Mason, the team's leading scorer with 26 points, including 11 goals. The pair will form one of the top offensive duo's in the league and will once again facilitate the offense for Salem State. Senior, Mackenzie Schmink will also be a pivotal part of the offense after starting in all 17 games in 2021.

Stephanie Santorella and Harkins (2021 LEC 12th Man Award) will lead the defense with Isabel Mendoza and Caroline Herbert providing valuable experience and depth. Sophomore Julia Paulino will play a bigger role on offense after contributing four goals in just eight starts a year ago while rising junior Ashley Yebba will look to make a bigger impact on defense.

Junior keeper Molly Ryan will get the start in net, a tall task, as she will replace graduated, ALL-LEC goalie Kelli McCarthy. McCarthy will however, return to the team, moving to the sidelines as an assistant coach.

COACH'S TAKE

"Every year we strive to leave the program better than it was the previous year. We are excited to move into our 2022 season with this group of athletes to leave our mark on the program. We truly believe that each day builds upon the previous. The tenacity, will-power and drive of each member of our team has been evident with the work they put in during the off season."

2022 New Players to Watch

Hannah Cochran - Marshfield High School

Aleena Frith-North Middlesex Regional

Faith Soller-Hightstown (N.J.)

SEASON OPENER

Salem State opens the season at home on Thursday, September 1 against Lasell @ 4:00 PM.

2022 Little East Field Hockey Coaches Pre-Season Poll

1. Keene State - 134 points (6 FPV)

2. Eastern Connecticut - 132 points (5 FPV)

3. Worcester State - 122 points (2 FPV)

4. Southern Maine - 117 points

5. Westfield State - 92 points