LEICESTER, Mass. – Under the direction of second-year head coach Meighan Allison, the Becker field hockey team enters the 2018 season with a positive outlook, as they return six starters.

Junior midfielder Amy Cooper (Monument, Colo.) who was the 2017 New England Collegiate Conference (NECC) Player of the Year, and a first team All-NECC selection, returns for the 2018 season.  Despite being hampered by an injury, Cooper netted four goals and two assists a year ago.

Also returning to the team are midfielders Lauren Niemann (Bay Shore, N.Y.) and Abigail Leahy (Charlton, Mass.).

"We are looking to improve on our record and game consistency from last season," said Allison.  "Strengthening our overall team chemistry, and limiting our injuries are ways for us to work towards doubling our winning percentage and competing with the teams in our conference."

The Hawks welcome eight newcomers to the program.

Allison expressed, "Bringing in my first recruiting class, I am hoping for immediate impact from these new players.  With the talent from returners and the strength of the freshmen and transfers, we are looking forward to a successful season."

"We have a lot of work to do and we all are looking forward to putting in that hard work to allow for a rewarding season," concluded Allison.

The NECC released the preseason poll on Monday (Aug. 20), and Becker was picked to finish third in the conference, while New England College was the preseason favorite. To view the 2018 NECC Field Hockey Preseason Poll, please CLICK HERE.

The field hockey team opens up at home on Saturday, Sep. 1 against Lasell at 1 p.m.