by Michaela Alfano '25
The Ohio Wesleyan women's lacrosse team has started the 2022 season on an incredibly high note. This season, the team has been consistent, committed, and motivated. Those qualities have helped the Bishops go 7-0, breaking the Ohio Wesleyan record for longest season-opening winning streak.
The Bishops opened the season on February 26 with a 16-5 win against Adrian. Over spring break, the team had a series of games in North Carolina against Ferrum, Greensboro, and Guilford, winning the last 2 by large margins. Since returning home, they have continued to dominate, winning their next two games.
After two years of limited play, "it simply feels amazing to be back on the field," said head coach Paige Messersmith. She further explained that Ohio Wesleyan women's lacrosse has such a rich history that this team being able to break a record like this means a lot to the team. "It is special for this team to add to what so many great people before us have accomplished."
This team is truly special with how well they work together. It is a group mentality of training, competing, and doing it for each other every time they get onto the field. Messersmith spoke highly about this team saying, "This is the closest team that I have coached and it is paying off on the field."
With conference play coming up, Messersmith talks about the team environment. The win streak has encouraged the Bishops and given them momentum that will keep them encouraged going into the toughest part of the season. Overall, there is a sentiment of staying in the moment, focusing, and being as prepared as they can be to take on their next opponent.
A big factor in their success this season has been the defense, which has been the backbone of the team. They are reliable with their consistency, as well as their drive to win the ball back every time. Going into conference play, Messersmith says she is "looking forward to how we match up with our conference opponents." The games will be tougher but with a solid defense like that of Ohio Wesleyan, the team is ready.
Leadership on the field is another key factor in what has allowed them to be so successful in the beginning of the season. Captains Taylor Floyd, Grace Egan, and Sophia DelGallo are the stalwarts of this team. On and off the field they are focused, consistent and vocal leaders. Messersmith adds that "in the big moments they step up," which has made other players even more confident in their abilities. Overall, this is an incredible team that is ready to win and hopes to extend the record-breaking winning streak as the season continues on.
The Bishops return to action on Wednesday against Calvin College before kicking off their conference schedule on Saturday at Denison.
