
Newton, MA-The Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) recently released its 2025 pre-season rankings, and Lasell University is poised for a strong season, securing a spot in the top four. The Lasers have shown significant growth in recent years, improving their record from 2-14 in 2023 to 8-10 in 2024, and they're looking to build on that momentum in the upcoming season.
Lasell returns a solid core of key players from last year's successful campaign, including graduate student Kaitlin Bedell. A force on both ends of the field, Bedell posted an impressive 58 goals and 16 assists in 2024. Defensively, she contributed 50 ground balls, 13 draw controls, and 15 caused turnovers, making her one of the most versatile players on the roster. Joining her is fellow graduate attacker Annarita Sanfilippo, who netted 20 goals last season and continues to be an offensive threat for the Lasers.
Emily Watson, a sophomore standout is quickly making her mark as one of the rising stars in the program. After a successful freshman year, posting 14 goals and 11 assists, Watson is expected to play an even more significant role in the Lasers' pursuit of success this season.
Defensively, Shannon Borbee, a senior, has been a staple for Lasell since joining in 2022. In 2024, Borbee collected 22 ground balls and caused 21 turnovers, solidifying her as a leader on the defensive end. Joy Sayah, a junior goalkeeper, also returns for the Lasers after starting all 18 games in 2024. Sayah tallied 219 saves and posted a 49.2% save percentage, and will be crucial to the team's defensive success this season.
The Lasers are also excited to welcome a talented incoming class of 10 new players, which is expected to make an immediate impact. With fresh faces ready to step up, the Lasers are poised to challenge for the top spots in the GNAC and make their presence felt in the confernce. With a strong mix of experienced veterans and dynamic newcomers, Lasell is eager to continue its upward trajectory and build on last season's success. The 2025 season promises to be one full of excitement and potential for the Lasers!
Full Pre-Season Rankings:
North Division | ||
1. | Emmanuel (13) | 124 |
2. | Saint Joseph's (Maine) (1) | 99 |
3. | Colby-Sawyer | 94 |
4. | Simmons (2) | 82 |
5. | Norwich | 73 |
6. | Rivier | 48 |
7. | New England College | 36 |
8. | Anna Maria | 20 |
South Division | ||
1. | Johnson & Wales (16) | 128 |
2. | University of Saint Joseph (Conn.) | 109 |
3. | Regis | 92 |
4. | Lasell | 83 |
5. | Elms | 61 |
6. | Dean | 54 |
7. | Albertus Magnus | 25 |
8. | Mitchell | 24 |