Strong start for m. lax

With the regular season fast approacing, men's lacrosse has played well in four scrimmages. The team first played Hofstra, ranked ninth in the preseason polls, and Fairfield. The following weekend the Bulldogs hosted number-16 Delaware and number-14 Hobart for another exhibition double header. While no official score is kept in scrimmages, Yale played quite well against the teams. The strong showing against Hofstra was especially encouraging as the Bulldogs played without three of their starting attackmen, who were sitting out due to injuries.

Such encouraging preseason play has changed the team's approach to this season. "This year the goal is to go the NCAA tournament," Bryan Corey, BK '01, said. "We're encouraged by our play, and our attitude shows our improved confidence."

Due to the numerous injuries, the freshmen were given an opportunity to prove themselves on the playing field in the scrimmages. At times, all six of the offensive players on the field were freshmen.

Facing perennial powers such as Duke, Maryland, Princeton, and UMass this season, the Bulldogs face a tough schedule, but remain confident. "We've got several really tough games this year, but based on my experience this team has what it takes to compete well," Corey said. Yale begins its 13-game regular season on Sat., Mar. 3, when it hosts Drexel. —Scott Goldberg

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