By Dalton Ray–
The revealing continues as TLC Sports keeps shedding light on players to know for fall sports. Danny Reynolds of the men’s soccer team was highlighted last time. Next, we move right down Floyd Street and look into Trager Stadium.
Field hockey: Stephanie Byrne
Field hockey is quietly becoming one of Louisville’s top programs. In Justine Sowry’s first five year the team is 65-35 and has hit double-digit wins every year. Adding on, they’ve also reached the NCAA Tournament the past two seasons. U of L has produced four NFHCA All-Americans and 17 All-Region selections during the past five years.
One of the top performers on last year’s team is returning in Byrne. The during her sophomore campaign, Byrne made 19 starts in 20 games last year and placed second on the team in goals. Byrne has played in 41 games in the past two years but made all of her starts last season. When given her chance, Byrne didn’t look back.
Byrne was able to nearly triple her goal-total and total points from her freshman to sophomore season. In 2014, Byrne scored three goals and had six points. 2015’s season saw Byrne find the net eight times and account for 16 points on the year. Of the eight goals she was able to score, three were game-winners. One came against No. 13 Boston College on the road.
After losing key members of the team to graduation, Byrne will be leaned on much more this season. With big performances in her first year as a starter, Byrne is building a reputation of stepping up in big moments. Two years of college remain for the junior for New Jersey and her name can be remembered for years to come.
Photo by Sam Draut / The Louisville Cardinal
