By Brad Jones:
Louisville Field Hockey starts their 2012 season this Friday, August 24th, against 21st ranked Northeastern as part of the Sherrill Brakmeier Classic hosted at Trager Stadium. After a tough loss last season in the Big East semifinals, the Cardinals come into this season with high expectations. The Cardinals were picked to finish third in the 2012 BIG EAST Field Hockey Preseason Coaches’ Poll and are currently ranked 23rd in the nation.
The team, lead by second year head coach Justine Sowry, faces a tough 2012 schedule as they look to improve upon last season’s 10-9 record. The Cardinals, who rank 32nd in the country in RPI (strength of schedule), face seven Top 25 teams this season including homes games against Northeastern (21), Connecticut (6), Iowa (12), Ohio State (15) and away games against Syracuse (7), Albany (19), and Wake Forest (13).
Despite a competitive schedule, the Cardinals will be a formidable opponent as they field three All- BIG EAST preseason selections that include: Dominique Pasqualichio (1), Erin Conrad (90), and Alyssa Voelmle (10).
The mixture of senior leadership and talent the team possesses was evident in the 3-0 scrimmage win against Indiana last week. The Cardinals look to carry this momentum into this weekend’s tournament and sustain it throughout the season.
Cardinal Sports Zone will cover Field Hockey this entire season, reminding you of upcoming games, providing you with game recaps, and more. Admission is free to all games so make sure you come out and support the team this season. For the complete schedule click here.