The school year is under way and the Lycoming Warriors are up and running … literally. All of our fall sports team are back in action and ready for another great season.

Our volleyball team went 24-11 last year, and with many experienced veterans returning, they are looking forward to an even better season. Two returning seniors, Seneca Reilly and Kelly Watson, have been starting since they were freshman. Their talent combined with other key players from last year, along with “fresh,” new team members on the court, gives them hope for a great season. Maybe even a conference title. Their last conference title was in 1998.

Also in women’s sports, we have the women’s soccer team. The women’s team has struggled the past few years to really rebuild their program, but this is hopefully that last season for that. There are many returning players with lots of experience, and with captains Laura Dillion, Kristina Kleintop and Beth Weixel example and desire to the win the women’s team may just give other teams a run for their money. Although the goalie position is being filled by two rookies, Jessica Bennett and Mallory McDonald, these girls may be just what the team needed.

Another team that is in the rebuilding process is Cross Country. I bet most of you didn’t even know we had one. Last year the cross country team consisted of only women members, but with much recruiting by the coach and team members, there is now a men’s cross country team here at Lycoming. The women have proven that they can really compete and even had intense pre-season training. Jacqueline Gauer leads the team with her example as captain. “Our team looks strong, and now with the added component of the men’s team it now feels complete,” commented sophomore Jackie Rubin, “I am looking forward to a competitive season with some outstanding runners.” They’ve got a lot of good talent out and they are very excited for this season, I’ve never seen a team so enthusiastic about what they are doing.

The Warriors men’s soccer team went 15-5 last season, raising many people’s expectations for the team this year. But the team is ready for the challenges that lie ahead of them.

Co-Captains - Jason Fessler, Ryan Wertz, Mike Ward and Chris Mason, plan on leading the team to many victories this year. The team only lost three members of the team from last year, but they gained many new, talented freshmen who have a lot to add. The team looks stronger than ever and we all should be watching for them around playoff time to show their skills and prove just how much they have to offer.

Finally we have the Warriors football team. The football team has 13 returning starts which will be a great help in improving their record of 9-2 from last season.

The Warriors have been chosen as a favorite to repeat as champs of the Middle Atlantic Conference.

With captains Phil Mann (All Conference quarterback), Luke Sterling (All American linebacker) and Brian Kaspick leading the way, the team is sure to hold up to the expectations many have for them.

Coach Frank Girardi comments that the team “had a very competitive camp during preseason. We are hopeful to be in the thick of the championship race again this year.”