Laxers’ struggles continue

in Lacrosse/SPORTS by

By Reid Okoniewski

Contributing Writer

With the end of their careers at St. Bonaventure University fast approaching, senior defenseman Colleen Guilfoyle and senior midfielder Kaitlin Jennings are looking to spark momentum in the final stretch of Bonnies’ lacrosse.

“After the loss against Binghamton, we are hungry to win,” Guilfoyle said.

However, referring to the slow start, Jennings said it is nothing to worry about.  “It’s not a discouraging thing, it’s something that we as a team can build on.”

The Bonnies have their final two home games this weekend and final three on the road.  Guilfoyle does not think that playing on the road will be an issue.

“When I look at those games, I’m thinking that they are going to be the last games I have,” Guilfoyle said.  “Being on the road is nothing new to us.  It is just something we have to get used to.  We are looking to win out the season.”

The two seniors on the squad have goals in mind for the remainder of the season; win what’s left of the season and get their first career Atlantic 10 win.

“It is hard,” Jennings said.  “We know it means a lot to us and so does our team.  We just need to work hard and make this work.”

Coach Ryan Lynn agreed with his two seniors, adding that these next few games are “doable wins.”

“We need to focus in now on winning those small battles.  Those small battles really impact our performance as a team,” Lynn said.

Guilfoyle and Jennings have a bittersweet feeling this weekend, as it will be their final home game in the brown and white.  Lynn said these seniors sparked momentum on the team this season and have made a lasting impact.

“Colleen brought a positive attitude to the team as a walk on,” Lynn said.  “She showed the true transformation of a player; from walk on, to scholarship player and now to a starter.”  “Her leadership and attitude towards the sport goes hand in hand with Kaitlin (Jennings) with keeping the team grounded and motivated.”

Lynn said Jennings brought a challenging atmosphere to his office.  “I know she challenges me as a coach and it’s something that I thrive on,” Lynn said.

Lynn has said time and again how Jennings was was willing to adjust positions for the betterment of the team.

“No matter where we put her throughout her career, she embraced it and gave 110 percent.  Whether it’s games or practice, she gets the job done.”

Jennings said she has a job lined up at the end of May. She also hopes she can coach lacrosse at the high school level in the future.

Guilfoyle said she wants to enjoy her last days at college.

“Other than school work and lacrosse, I’m just focusing on enjoying the moment while it’s still around,” Guilfoyle said.

The Bonnies have a two-game home stand today against La Salle at 3 p.m. and St. Joseph’s on Sunday at noon, both at the Marra Athletic Complex.

okoniert14@bonaventure.edu