NC Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse women's lacrosse team won their season opener 20-4 against Iowa's Clark University.

The team's strong opener with 20 goals ties the single-game UW-La Crosse school record. The last time the team scored that many goals was against Iowa's Wartburg College in March of 2021, according to UW Athletics.

UW-La Crosse finished the game with 44 shots with 25 of those in the second half. Sophomore Nicole Jernander led the team with five goals. Sophomore Lauren Schwartz and freshman Megan Feeney each had four goals, according to UW Athletics.

UW-La Crosse Coach Cassandra Berger is looking for the same things she always looks for and recognizes that there are always areas for improvement. Berger has a few objectives to accomplish this season.

"A goal that I want for our team is to find the silver lining in situations even if it seems really hard to do. I think if we have this as a team goal, we can all hold each other accountable for it," she said.

A solid work ethic is another goal for the team and "understanding that we are part of something bigger than ourselves," Berger said.

"Everyone has a role, and understanding this allows for better teamwork and cooperation to make sure everyone can hit their full potential," she said.

Communication is vital for the coach.

"This includes communication on the field with their teammates during practice/games," Berger said. "But also communication with our coaching staff, our athletic trainers, our strength coaches, etc. We encourage our athletes to share how they feel with us, even if they are difficult conversations to have."

Lastly, Berger would like a 3.1 GPA goal for the team.

The coach also says that team chemistry will directly affect performance.

UW-La Crosse women's lacrosse team is made up of 90% freshmen and sophomores, Berger said.