The University of Indianapolis’ women’s lacrosse team claimed the top spot in the Feb. 16 Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (Division II) women’s lacrosse poll after upsetting the University of Tampa 10-6.
UIndy went up against the Spartans on Saturday, Feb 14. Before the game, Tampa was top-ranked in the poll and the reigning national champions, according to the NCAA.
Going into a match against a team that recently won a title may seem daunting, but the Hounds did not intend to change their style of play, according to associate head coach Casey Korb.
“We still wanted to keep true to ourselves, keeping in mind what [Tampa’s] good at and adjusting to it if we had to,” Korb said.
The key to the win was UIndy’s defense, highlighted by goalkeeper Ava Graham, according to Korb. Graham recorded nine saves for a 60% save percentage, according to UIndy Athletics.
“Our defense did phenomenal,” Korb said. “And [Graham] is the quarterback of that defense.”
On the offensive end, Malaena Michielin showed out with three of UIndy’s 10 goals. Freshman Reese Fahlke scored her first career goal, which was the first goal of the game, while Olivia Bladon, the US Lacrosse preseason midfielder of the year, added two goals and one assist.
“[Bladon] did a great job setting her teammates up and putting up a few points herself,” Korb said.
Additionally, Korb emphasized that the Hounds have a great appreciation for their bench and rotating players, with everyone contributing on and off the field.
“I put a lot of emphasis on hyping everyone up,” Korb said. “Everyone plays a part, and I think they all did their job on Saturday.”
The Hounds faced another tough test as they hit the road to face then fourth-ranked Florida Southern on Saturday, Feb 21. UIndy came out of the gates hot, clinging to a 3-2 lead after the first period, but the Mocs responded with six unanswered goals throughout the second and third periods. The Hounds ultimately fell by a final score of 9-8, according to UIndy Athletics.
Although the Hounds now sit second in the rankings, the season is just beginning. With a full schedule ahead, Korb emphasized that maintaining their spot will require continued effort.
“We fully intend on fighting and earning the spot that we’re in right now,” Korb said. “We understand that it’s not just that we get it once and we don’t get to keep it, we have to earn it every week.”
The women’s lacrosse team’s next home game is scheduled for Friday, March 6, at 5 p.m. against Grand Valley State University.
