By Gabrielle Duncan

The University of Louisville women’s lacrosse team is coming off a decisive win, preparing for what they hope will be the most successful season in the program’s history. On Sunday, Feb. 20, the Cardinals opened their season, defeating Binghamton University by a score of 18-4. The team, led by captain Bergan Foley, has high expectations for the season.

Foley, a senior attack player and a two-time captain, was the nation’s leading scorer last season, with a total of 78 goals, and was ranked No. 1 in the nation for goals scored per game. But she has even bigger goals for herself and the team this year.

“I want our team to beat all our Top 20 opponents, get to the Big East tournament, and make it to the NCAA tournament,” said Foley.

The Cardinals finished last season with a record of 11-6, and 4-4 against Big East competition. Foley and head coach Kellie Young, who is entering her fourth season as head coach, believe that the results will only continue to improve this season, because the team has grown and matured since last season.

“The team has undoubtedly shown a lot of maturity,” said Young. “And they really believe in themselves. They just need to bring it every day and leave everything on the field.”

While maturity and confidence are both important for success in athletics, teams also need a strong leader. The Cardinal lacrosse team believes they have that in Foley.

“My responsibilities are making sure that the team stays focused during practice and that my teammates remain accountable on and off the field,” said Foley.

Although Foley’s accomplishments on the field have gained national attention, it is her work ethic and commitment that stand out to her coaches.

“She’s always given 100 percent in practice, individuals and games,” said Young. “She gets what the coaches need to be done and lets the team know. She just gets it.”

Liz Lovejoy, a senior attack player and a first-time captain, agreed with Young.

“She is a goofball and serious at the same time,” said Lovejoy. “And she doesn’t have any problem communicating. She says what needs to be said without being mean. She knows how to get us pumped up and ready to play.”

Lovejoy had a career high of 46 goals last season and was ranked third on the team in goals scored.

For Foley and Lovejoy, the upcoming season has special importance. As members of U of L’s first lacrosse team four years ago, both seniors are hoping to end their college careers on a high note.

“The seniors started this program four years ago,” said Foley. “And I’m really excited because it should be our most successful season. And we have nothing to lose going out there.”

The Cardinals have been preparing, both physically and mentally, to have great success in this season, hoping to showcase their progress and improvement from previous years.

“I’m excited to see how far we’ve come and how far we can go,” said Lovejoy.

The Cardinals will continue their season on Saturday, Feb. 26 at 1 p.m. at the U of L Lacrosse Stadium. The team will be taking on Old Dominion University. It will be Old Dominion’s first matchup of the season.