University of Richmond Athletics
Field Hockey Continues to Set Records
09/23/2003 | Field Hockey
Sept. 23, 2003
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. -- The University of Richmond field hockey team has begun its 2003 campaign with a bang. The Spiders have defeated two ranked opponents, compiled a 6-1 record, the best start in program history, and have won their last four contests.
Richmond is currently ranked 16th in this week's NFHCA poll, moving up four spots from last week's 20th position. This marks the first time in over a decade that the Spiders have made an appearance in a national poll as Richmond was ranked as high as 17th in 1992. The Spiders are also ranked ninth on www.BPRratings.com, these ratings are based on a combination of scoring offense, scoring defense, win/loss record and strength of schedule to date.
The Spiders' first victory over a ranked opponent this season was on September 14th, when Richmond defeated #13 William and Mary, 4-1, their first win over the Tribe since 1991. The second upset was a 2-0 shutout against #15 Indiana University this past Sunday. The Spiders' other victories came against Vermont, American and Stanford.
Freshman Inge van Bogerijen (Zeist, The Netherlands) has recorded a team-high five goals, added two assists and was honored as co-Rookie of the Week by the conference (9/15). Sophomore Allie Howard (Lancaster, Pa.) leads the team with seven assists and contributed four goals. Sophomore goalie Michelle Swartz (Severna Park, Md.) recorded her first shutout of the season against #15 Indiana. Swartz has played all seven contests, tallied 35 saves and allowed only 11 goals.
The Spiders are set to face #12 Virginia on Wednesday, September 24th in Charlottesville, Va. with game time scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Richmond defeated Virginia for the first time in program history in 2002 at Crenshaw Field, 2-1.
