2021 Field Hockey Preview

SALEM, Mass. -- Salem State was picked 7th in the 2021 Little East Field Hockey Coaches Poll on Friday. Head coach Stephanie Rouse begins her 7th Year and is optimistic that the Vikings can continue to build on the momentum of their 2019 season, which reached 10 wins for the first time since 1992. "As a small team, we're looking forward to our core returners bringing the same intensity and drive as in the 2019 season. Our newcomers will bring the extra dynamic needed to bring our program to new levels. I'm looking forward to watching our team connect as a unit on the field. We're so exciting to be back playing this fall.

Midfielder Marissa Laganas a 2019 All-Little East Conference Second Team selection is back to lead the Vikings. Teamed with returning leading scorer Allison Couillard, - 9g, 5a - 23 points - and Melanie Mason and Mikayla Mason, who combined for five goals and seven assists previously, Salem State will have one of the top returning lines in the Little East.

Goalie Kelli McCarthy will anchor the defense after posting solid numbers two seasons ago. The senior won 10 games, which included a 2.19 goals against average and three shutouts.

The Vikings open on the road against Lasell on Wednesday, September 1.    

2021 LEC Field Hockey Preseason Coaches' Poll (FPV)
1. Worcester State - 138 points (8)
2. Keene State - 125 points (2)
3. Western Connecticut - 102 points (3)
4. Southern Maine - 98 points
5. Castleton - 95 points
6. Plymouth State - 84 points
7. Salem State - 74 points
8. Eastern Connecticut - 73 points
9. Westfield State - 44 points
10. Bridgewater State - 41 points
11. UMass Dartmouth - 37 points
12. Framingham State - 26 points
13. Fitchburg State - 25 points