STORYLINES TO WATCH
An offense and draw unit with big cleats to fill.
The Rosenzweig-Sam Fiedler connection helped the Greyhounds to a historic 2022 that included a sixth Patriot League title, a program-record 20 wins and a trip to the NCAA quarterfinals. Having Elli Kluegel (48 G, 8 A) didn’t hurt, either. All three players have exhausted their eligibility. Who’s got next?
Georgia Latch (38 G, 38 A, 6 CT, 16 GB), probably. Head coach Jen Adams said the sophomore attacker has more confidence after a freshman year that saw her finish second on the team in points. She’ll also likely be on a wing during draws, trying to help fill one of the many voids left by Rosenzweig.
Wilson led the way on the circle, and the middie has developed playmaking and finishing abilities set to make her an even bigger threat in 2023.
Chase Boyle (25 G, 7 A, 24 DC) will likely join her classmate, Latch, and Wilson on the circle. Her 5-10 frame gives her an advantage not even a G.O.A.T. like Adams can teach.
Sydni Black (39 G, 13 A) and Emily Wills (13 G, 7 A) are two others likely to factor into an offense that will develop a new identity this year.
“We’re still watching for exactly what we’re looking for on offense,” Adams said.
Defense key with roles to fill.
Defense has been a calling card for Loyola over the years, and 2022 was no different. The Greyhounds finished third in Division I in scoring defense (8.05). Loyola loses its starting goalie in Larsson (8.25 GAA, .467 SV%) but brings back one of the nation’s top defenders in Detwiler. Detwiler is aggressive and has a knack for coming up with loose balls. But it’s her veteran presence that the Greyhounds need most as they turn the page.
“It’s like having another coach out on the field,” Adams said.
Logan Olmstead (8 CT) started every game last season and also returns. Shay Clevenger (15 CT, 30 GB), now an assistant for Patriot League foe Boston University, also leaves an opportunity for another defender.
A few candidates: Lily Osborne is a powerful defender who played in 21 games as a freshman. Lisk gelled quickly after arriving on campus. And Daryl Cross, a fifth-year who played midfield last season, will transition into a more defensive role. Adams says she brings experience and athleticism.
Who will win the starting goalie nod?
The Greyhounds started the fall with two candidates in sophomore Laura Spence, Larsson’s backup who saw action in 13 games in 2022, and senior Amber Bustard. But Bustard sat out the fall with an injury, leaving Spence to fly solo during scrimmages.
“We operated with a skeleton crew,” Adams said.
The good news? Spence was cool under pressure.
“She absolutely stepped up into that role and gave us confidence in her ability to handle that kind of pressure,” Adams said.
Spence is resilient — she doesn’t let mistakes phase her, and she brings a mental toughness to the cage. But she’ll need to continue to show that during the preseason. Spence hasn’t been handed the starting job just yet. Butler, who has yet to play in a collegiate game, will push her in January.
ENEMY LINES
WHAT RIVALS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE GREYHOUNDS
“They have one of the best players in Wilson. They have always made the most of what they have. They’re aggressive, well-coached and creative. They’re never going to let you get into a pattern. I would not count them out. With them, it’s just a reload.”
+201
The Greyhounds finished 2022 with the fourth-best offense in the country and the fourth-best defense in the country. That, in and of itself, made them a tough out last year. But here’s a stat for you: They also led Division I women’s lacrosse with a +201 possession advantage. Thanks to a ride unit, clear unit and draw unit that were all top 10, they averaged nine more offensive possessions than opponents. If they can be anywhere close to that mark again in 2023, look out.
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