Saint Mary's finished last season with a disappointing record of 2-13-1, partly due to the team's inexperience and shortage of senior leadership. However, second-year coach Ryan Crabbe's squad won't have that problem again this year.
The Belles (1-2) field nine seniors this time around, five of whom are starters.
Captain Bridget Ronayne returns alongside classmate Jessica Slean to anchor a defense that gave up 35 goals last season. The pair will lead an experienced backline hoping to stifle opposing attacks. Ronayne had a goal and an assist as well last season.
Possibly the most important returning senior for Saint Mary's is goalkeeper Patty Duffy who started 14 games last season. Duffy recorded an astounding 81 saves last season and already has 23 saves in just three games so far this season.
Seniors Micki Hedinger and Sam Smogor give the Belles a very experienced duo on the attacking side of the field. Hedinger was second on the team with three goals last season and notched two assists. Smogor pitched in a goal and an assist of her own.
The Belles got off to a fast start after knocking off Holy Cross 3-0 in the first game of the season. Senior Katy Durkin showed the team's depth and versatility by coming off the bench to score a goal.
Saint Mary's ran into stiffer competition at the Centre College tournament where they dropped two decisions to Centre and Transylvania.
The team will host the Saint Mary's Invitational where it is scheduled to meet Otterbein and Manchester in an exhibition tournament Sept. 11-13.
The Belles will begin their MIAA conference season looking to improve on last season's 1-8 record when they travel to Adrian College Sept. 30.
