Just removed one year removed from its 2013 National Championship, the Raiders look to build off an impressive 15-5 record last season and return to championship status.
The Raiders open the season ranked third in the 2015 PSAC Preseason Coaches’ poll, but hope to climb to the top ranking before the season’s end. And with a projected 21 returning players from last year’s team, there are high hopes for this season.
Among Shippensburg projected 21 returning players are seniors are Molly Stuart, Ari Saytar and Taylor Webster who are expected to serve as team captains. Stuart had an excellent junior season and was named to the All-PSAC second team for her stellar defensive play. Webster posted a 3-0 record as goal keeper last season in her six appearances and did not allow a goal in 233 minutes of play. Saytar is looking to bounce back from a 2014 campaign cut short due to injury.
Also returning is sophomore Ally Mooney, who was honored as an NFHCA Second Team All-American for her play. Mooney started all 17 games in which she appeared and posted a .831 save percentage.
While Stuart, Saytar and Webster excel at the defensive aspect of the game, the Raiders will look to other members of its squad for offensive production.
Sophomore Emily Barnard is the team’s returning top-scorer, posting eight goals in her freshman season. Katelyn Grazen looks to improve from her already impressive sophomore season, which saw her post both five goals and assists.
Shippensburg’s kicks-off the regular season with Sept. 5 showdown against Saint Michaels College.
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