February 3, 2006
Methodist picked fourth in preseason USA South women’s lacrosse poll
Methodist opens Brundage era with Feb. 22 showdown against rival Greensboro

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The USA South Athletic Conference released its 2006 preseason poll for women’s lacrosse on Wednesday, and the Methodist Monarchs were selected fourth in the seven-team race. Methodist received 21 votes for its fourth-place pick.

Christopher Newport, the defending USA South champion, was the preseason favorite with 34 points and four first-place votes, followed closely by Greensboro with 30 points and two first-place votes and defending USA South Tournament champion Shenandoah with 29 points and one first-place vote. Rounding out the poll was Averett (13), Ferrum (11) and conference newcomer North Carolina Wesleyan (six).

Methodist will be under the direction of new head coach Beth Brundage for the 2006 season. She inherits a squad that went 8-9 last season, set the school record for victories in a season and advanced to the USA South Tournament championship game. The Monarchs return a strong core of players, led by reigning USA South Player of the Year Lauren McGonagle, reigning USA South Rookie of the Year Katelyn Cushman and All-Conference performers Lindsey West and Bridgette McGrath.

Methodist opens the 2006 season at home on Feb. 22 against rival Greensboro.