February 19, 2002

CENTER VALLEY, Pa.—The coaches and sports information directors of the Patriot League recently voted on the men’s lacrosse preseason poll. The Hobart College Statesmen were picked third, behind defending champion Bucknell and Army.

The Statesmen are associate members of the Patriot League, competing in men’s lacrosse since 2000. Hobart has been the preseason favorite in each of the last two seasons, winning the league crown in 2000.

“With all of the strong players they return, Bucknell and Army have to be the favorites,” first-year Head Coach Matt Kerwick ’90 said. “We’re fortunate to be involved with such a competitive league, and, without question, we expect to compete for the title.”

Hobart finished the 2001 season with a 5-7 overall record, and finished second in the Patriot League with a 5-1 mark. The Statesmen return 25 letter winners, including six starters, from that squad.

The Statesmen open their 100th season at sixth-ranked Maryland on Feb. 23. Hobart last tangled with the Terrapins during the 1995 season. Hobart returns to Geneva for its home opener on March 2, against Vermont. The Statesmen also have home dates with No. 7 Georgetown, No. 15 Cornell, No. 16 Penn State, No. 19 Bucknell, Lafayette, and Colgate.

For the complete 2002 Hobart lacrosse schedule, visit the official home of the Statesmen at: web.hws.edu/statesmen/lacrosse.