RU WLAX Opens Season With Game Versus KSU

Waleska, GA – The Reinhardt Eagles women's lacrosse team played in their home season-opener on Monday night at home against DI school, the Kennesaw State Univeristy Owls. The Owls came out on top with a final score of 20-4. KSU gave the Eagles a very competitive match-up that ultimately helped the Eagles as they enter their 2024 season. 

The owls made the first strike just one minute into the opening quarter but Reinhardt answered with a goal of their own just a couple minutes later with a goal by Kelsey Sowa from Shelby O'Neil. After a few more KSU goals, RU freshman, Brinley Christiansen scored her 1^st goal as an RU eagle as the assist came from another freshman, Brooklyn Hill to close out the first quarter. KSU then went on a 5-0 run in the second, but Jillian Mello was able to get one through the back of the net with an assist from Brinley Christiansen. RU was able to get one more goal in the 3^rdquarter from Christiansen in a free position shot. Brinley Christiansen proved herself to be a new player to watch from this already dominant RU team. 

The Eagles will now travel to Florida for an NAIA match-up versus Keiser University. The Eagles will be playing the Seahawks on Saturday, February 17^th, at 12pm. The trip to Florida will continue with another game the following day, versus St. Thomas at 1pm. 

Outstanding Performers:

• Brinley Christiansen led the Eagles with 2 goals, while Jillian Mello and Kelsey Sowa each added one.  
• Brooklyn Hill, Brinley Christiansen, and Shelby O'Neil each recorded 1 assist.
• Mia Griswold had 5 draw-controls and picked up the squad's most of 11 ground-balls.
• Ashley Steel stood out defensively, causing 3 KSU turnovers. 
• Madison Hasty recorded 9 saves.  

Team Comparison:

Goals: 20-4 RU

Shots: 37-9 KSU

Shots on Goals: 29-8 KSU

Free Position Shots: 4-7  -  1-2 KSU

Ground Balls: 44-32 KSU

Saves: 9-4 RU

Draw Controls: 18-9 KSU

Clears: 30-33  -  15-21 KSU

Penalties: 4-3 KSU

Fouls: 9-6 RU

Turnovers: 14-13 RU