FREELAND, Mich.-- The Trine women's lacrosse team has been picked to finish eighth in the MIAA Preseason Poll by the conference's coaches, the league announced Wednesday.
The Thunder received votes totaling 60 points in the poll to tie with St. Mary's for the eight spot. Coaches could not vote for their own team. Last season, Trine finished 1-11 overall and in ninth place in the MIAA. Goalkeeper Grace Garrett (Carmel, Ind./Carmel) was named MIAA Defensive Player of the Year for the second-consecutive season. The senior returns to serve as the team's defensive anchor this season. She either holds or is closing in on nearly every major program goalkeeping and defensive record.
Leading the attack is top-scorer Taylor Gast (Akron, Ind./Tippecanoe Valley). The senior scored 25 goals last season. Hunter Johnson (Millbury, Ohio/Lake) also returns as a proven scoring threat. The Thunder will also look to several newcomers to boost their scoring production.
Sarah Fowler led all returning defenders in caused turnovers. She will be joined by three returning starters and four newcomers to provide defensive support for Garrett.
This year's roster features eight newcomers, including seven freshmen. The increased roster size will provide increased depth and competition for returning players.
The season opens Friday, Mar. 6 with a trip to DePauw. For the complete schedule, click HERE.
The complete results of the MIAA Preseason Poll can be found below.
| Team | Votes (First-Place) | |
| 1. | Adrian | 10 (7) |
| 2. | Albion | 19 (1) |
| 3. | Alma | 20 (1) |
| 4. | Calvin | 26 |
| 5. | Kalamazoo | 39 |
| 6. | Hope | 44 |
| 7. | Olivet | 46 |
| T8. | St. Mary's | 60 |
| T8. | Trine |
60 |