Sophomore attacker Bella Fisher and the women’s lacrosse team are on a roll.
Winners of five straight matches following last weekend’s 16-5 thumping of Central Connecticut on Senior Day, SFU is currently 5-1 in the NEC and in a three-way tie atop the league standings.
The team faces Sacred Heart on the road on Saturday at 1 p.m. in a crucial contest. The Pioneers are also 5-1 in conference play.
One of the biggest factors in SFU’s success has been the play of Fisher. Through 10 matches, the Massachusetts native leads her team in goals (28), points (39), shots (77) and draw controls (32).
The Marketing major is second on the team in assists with 11.
“Bella brings a level of intensity and focus to every practice and game that is truly inspiring,” said SFU lacrosse head coach Tracy Coyne.
“She’s not only a talented player, but also a natural leader on and off the field.”
Fisher’s ability to read the game and create scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates has played an instrumental role in the program’s strong start to the season.
“Bella has this innate sense of where to be on the field,” said teammate Brooke Lacey. “It’s like she can see the play unfolding before it even happens.”
Off the field, Fisher balances her rigorous training schedule with her academic pursuits.
“It’s all about time management,” she said. “I know that my performance in the classroom is just as important as my performance on the field, so I make sure to prioritize both.”
While she has enjoyed her individual success, Fisher said the team’s goals are her No. 1 priority.
“Ultimately, it’s about winning games and making each other better,” she said. “Individual accolades are nice, but they don’t mean much if we’re not achieving success as a team.”
Looking ahead, Fisher has her sights set on leading Saint Francis to an NEC championship and a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
“We have the talent and the drive to compete at the highest level,” she said. “I believe in this team and I know that we can achieve greatness together.”
Saturday’s match against Sacred Heart will be streamed on NEC FrontRow.
