NC Wisconsin News

University of Wisconsin, La Crosse's women's lacrosse coach Cassandra Berger couldn't have scripted a better beginning for the young team.

The Eagles all looked in tune in their recent home opener, tying a single-game school scoring record during a 20-4 win over Iowa's Clarke University at the Veteran Memorial Field Sports Complex, the team reported on its site.

"A team's chemistry definitely has an effect on performance," Berger told Wisconsin News. "The more connection you have off the field, the more connection and trust you will have on the field, which will naturally lead to more success with wins and goals on the board"

Sophomore Nicole Jernander scored 5 points, and sophomore Lauren Schwartz and freshman Megan Feeney chipped with 4 each to lead an attack that fired off an eye-popping 44 shots altogether, the Eagles reported.

"Our team is 90% freshmen and sophomores this year, so we are definitely a young program," Berger said. "I have loved watching our women grow together day after day while building those connections on and off the field. We have had one month of practice, and the girls are noticeably closer than what they were at the start of season."

Berger said the kind of relentlessness and level of teamwork displayed during the game against Clarke University are characteristics she is stressing 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," Berger said. "I think if we have this as a team goal, we can all hold each other accountable for it. Everyone has a role, and understanding this allows for better teamwork and cooperation to make sure everyone can hit their full potential."