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ALBANY–The College of Saint Rose men's lacrosse team has a large crop of newcomers joining an experienced group of returnees aiming to achieve the program's first postseason berth.
 
"Our returning players gained a great deal of experience last year competing against a challenging schedule and hopefully they can learn from those experiences in 2018," said Saint Rose head coach Jim Morrissey.
 
However, the Golden Knights, which faced eight nationally ranked squads a year ago, are focusing on just enjoying the process. "We're focusing more on the process as compared to the outcomes," said Morrissey. "We want to improve each day and each game, and put the final score, whether it's good or bad, quickly behind us."
 
The Golden Knights were not hit hard by graduation, as more 70 percent of the team's scoring returns, including the top four goal scorers. Junior attack Carter Badour put together a "Cy Young" 24-5 scoring line for a team-best 29 points, while senior midfielder Matt Graham registered 26 points (18 goals and eight assists).
 
"Carter had a major impact on our team in 2017 due to his overall work ethic, positive attitude, and skill level," said Morrissey. "I am looking forward to seeing the fruits of his labor pay off. Matt Graham has been a steadying force for our program since the day he stepped onto the field and he has improved every season. He continues to be an important player for us and 2018 should be his best one yet."
 
Senior attack Evan Doherty and sophomore attack Jordyn Marchiano netted a dozen goals apiece. The latter earned All-Rookie honors from the Northeast-10 Conference.
 
"Jordan has the size and skill to become a very good player at Saint Rose and I am looking forward to watching him take the next step as a player this year," said Morrissey.
 
Saint Rose has its entire defense back, including junior goalie Liam Guiton. Guiton ranked 16^th nationally and fourth in the NE10 with 12.14 saves per game. His 52.5 save percentage was good for eighth in the conference.
 
"Liam is our returning captain and best overall player," said Morrissey. "He is a rock in goal and provides great leadership to his teammates. Last year, we only had six long poles on the roster. Four were freshmen and two were sophomores with little experience. The unit got thrown into the fire and improved greatly as the spring went on. They finished the year strong and I am confident their experience last year will carry over into this season and make them a better unit overall."
 
The Golden Knights added 14 newcomers to the program in 2018. Morrissey has high expectations for the group.
 
"We have a large group of new players to the team who are adding depth and skill level to the roster," said Morrissey. "A few of them will be counted on right away to help us on the field."
 
Saint Rose opens the season on Saturday, February 24 in Rochester vs. #12 Mercyhurst.

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