University of Richmond Athletics
Spider Lacrosse Breaks Into National Polls At No. 14
03/07/2006 | Women's Lacrosse
March 7, 2006
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. - After opening its season with three Top 10 opponents and upsetting No. 7 Virginia on Wed, the University of Richmond women's lacrosse squad broke through the national polls making its 2006 debut at the No. 14 spot. While Bounce Entertainment Poll dubbed the Spiders No. 18, both LaxPower and Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) voted Richmond to the No. 14 spot, the highest ranking in Spider lacrosse history.
After their thrilling 8-7 victory over the 2005 national runner up and dropping to No. 6 Maryland (now No. 4) by just three goals on Saturday, the nation can't help but respect the program that head coach Sue Murphy has built in Richmond, Va. and the talent that is emerging from the program.
"We had a very challenging start to our season with Duke, UVA and Maryland - three ACC powerhouses," stated Murphy. "After a disappointing loss to Duke, I am so pleased that the team made such adjustments going into our game against UVA. That was a very significant win to our program and our goals."
Despite the Spiders' 12-9 loss to Maryland, Murphy thought the team showed tremendous firepower with a five-goal run with 18 minutes left in the game. "We have learned a tremendous amount from these three games. We are excited to have gotten one win, although we always want more!"
Murphy is thrilled about the recognition and respect that her team is receiving after the start of their 2006 season. "The ranking of No. 14 is a great confidence booster to Richmond lacrosse; however, our focus will remain on our game-to-game schedule and preparing ourselves for Atlantic 10 competition in regular season and the A-10 Championships," continued Murphy.
"This is by far the best start we have had in our program's history."
See the No. 14 Spiders in action this Wed. at First Market Stadium where they will take on the William and Mary Tribe at 3 p.m.
