Ball State University Athletics
Field Hockey Opens 2015 Season Vs Rutgers, Lafayette
August 27, 2015 | Field Hockey
MUNCIE, Ind. – After many additions to the program and a productive offseason, the Ball State field hockey team will open the 2015 regular season this weekend at Rutgers on Saturday followed by Lafayette on Sunday. Both matchups are pinned for a noon start.
The Cardinals will begin the season with four road appearances prior to opening the home slate against Northwestern on Tuesday, Sept. 8 at 3 p.m. In addition to this weekend's non-conference action in Piscataway, N.J. and Easton, Pa., Ball State will play a highly competitive schedule against numerous nationally ranked teams including six Mid-American Conference matchups.
With the introductions of new head coach Sally Northcroft and graduate assistant coach Baillie Versfeld, who are joined by returning assistant coach Christy Longacre, a new energy of Ball State field hockey is presented with eight home matchups and the leadership of six seniors. With 15 returning players and the addition of seven newcomers, including two international student-athletes, the Cardinals are expected to produce a strong atmosphere both on and off the field.
SCOUTING RUTGERS: The Scarlet Knights are to open the 2015 season at home on Friday, Aug. 28 against Bucknell. Last season, Rutgers finished 9-10 overall, including an impressive 8-3 record at home. With four returning seniors, as well as returning junior goalkeeper Shevaun Hayes, Rutgers is expected to be a defensive powerhouse in the opening matchup.
SERIES HISTORY: Rutgers goes into Saturday's game with the 3-1 (0.75) advantage over Ball State, though the Cardinals have won most recently. The last matchup between the two schools was in 2000 resulting in a Ball State overtime victory of 4-3.
SCOUTING LAFAYETTE: The Sunday matchup with the Cardinals will be the 2015 season opener for the Panthers. After a 6-11 run, including a 2-5 home record in the 2014 season, Lafayette is set to present six freshmen in the season opener. With six returning seniors, including standout Amanda Magadan who was recently named to the U.S. U-21 Women's National Team, Rutgers is set to bring back many key returning powers, despite losing pivotal scorers.
Live stats will be available for fans at:
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