NAIA Top 10 Coaches Poll

Kansas City, MO – After winning three straight games, the UC women's lacrosse team earned 91 points to remain ranked second in the NAIA Coaches' Poll, released by the national office Wednesday.  It marks the 12^th straight poll that Cumberlands has held the second spot.

The Patriots are 5-1 on the season after defeating than ten-ranked Missouri Baptist 13-2 on Saturday. UC also has wins over Siena Heights, who is ranked ninth in this poll, and receiving votes St. Andrews.  UC is averaging 16.8 goals per game this season, while limiting opponents to 4.14 goals per game which leads the NAIA.

Cumberlands is being led by Trinity Brown, Olivia McCarrell, and Bella Ricchiazzi.  Brown, the reigning NAIA Player of the Week, leads the team with 16 caused turnovers, while scooping 16 ground balls and 29 draw controls.  McCarrell has continued to be unbeatable in the cage, limiting opponents to 4.97 goals per game, which ranks second in the NAIA, to go along with 29 saves.  Ricchiazzi leads the Patriots offense with 22 goals and 35 points on the season to be ranked fifth in the NAIA in points and sixth in goals.

Stephanie Meyer is on pace for a career year with 18 assists and 27 points, while newcomers Aleyah Belton, Morgan Tate, and Erin Bryant have made a tremendous impact.  Defender Christina Min and Rachel Leigh has tallied 31 and 27 draw controls, respectfully, as UC has won 67.8% of the draw controls this season.

Defending NAIA champion Keiser remains atop the poll with 98 points and all eight first-place votes.  Lawrence Tech is ranked third, while Life and Reinhardt rounds out the top-five.

The Patriots will be back in action tonight, March 9, when they host Truett-McConnell.  Game is set for 5 p.m. with live video available here and live stats available here.

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