WNEC Women's Soccer

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Archived News
2001-2003

Western New England College
Women's Soccer 2001-2003 News

Western New England College
Fall Sports Banquet
Saturday, Dec. 13, 2003
List of Award Recipients

Women's Soccer
Most Valuable Player - Senior Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT)
Offensive Most Valuable Player - Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH)
Defensive Most Valuable Player - Senior Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA)

FIVE GOLDEN BEARS NAMED TO ALL-GNAC WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Five Western New England College players were named to the 2003 All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Soccer Team on Tuesday (Nov. 11).

Gaining All-GNAC first team honors were senior back Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) and junior forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) while freshman midfielder Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) was an All-GNAC second team selection. Sophomore back Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY) and freshman forward Kait Jarret (Douglas, MA) received an honorable mention on the All-GNAC squad.

Johnson and Loper each made the All-GNAC team for the third consecutive season.

Johnson and Fleshman helped anchor the Golden Bears' defense that allowed only 32 goals in 20 matches with eight shutouts.

Loper (11 goals, 4 assists) and Thornton (7 goals, 12 assists) tied for the team lead in scoring with 26 points while Jarret was third with 21 points (8 goals, 5 assists).

Western New England College posted a 9-10-1 record this fall and placed second in the GNAC Tournament.

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2003
Emmanuel 1, WNEC 0
(GNAC Tournament - Final)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. Ð Sophomore Wendy Canty scored in the 17th minute with an assist from classmate Liz Weaver to lead fifth-seeded Emmanuel College to a 1-0 victory over third-seeded Western New England College in the championship match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship.

With the win, Emmanuel advances to the NCAA Division III Championship that begins next week at campus sites. Junior Kanee Chlebda made four saves for the Saints (12-6-2).

Freshman Marisa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) had four stops for the Golden Bears who finished their season with a 9-10-1 record.

Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2003
WNEC 1, Johnson & Wales 0
(GNAC Tournament - Semifinals)

WARWICK, R.I. - A trio of freshmen moved Western New England College to within one game of its third straight trip to the NCAA Division III Championship.

Jen Woishnis (Chicopee, MA) came off the bench to fire home the game-winner in the 37th minute as third-seeded Western New England College stunned second-seeded Johnson & Wales University 1-0 in a semifinal match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament.

The win avenged an earlier 3-1 loss to the Wildcats on October 18 in East Providence.

The Golden Bears will shoot for their third straight conference title at home against fifth-seeded Emmanuel College on Saturday at a time to be announced. The Saints advanced to their first GNAC final after upsetting top-seeded Simmons College 1-0 in overtime.

Western New England College and Emmanuel played a 1-1 double overtime tie on October 4 in Boston.

This was the second goal of the season for Woishnis who was playing in only her eighth match. Coral Gavriidis (Northvale, NJ) had the assist (the first of her collegiate career) while keeper Marissa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) had a strong performance finishing with seven saves for her fifth shutout.

The victory also gave WNEC a season high five-game winning streak.

KRISTIN THORNTON HONORED AS THE WNEC FEMALE ATHLETE-OF-THE-WEEK AND GNAC PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) was honored Tuesday (Nov. 4) as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week and the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Player-of-the-Week.

Thornton had three goals and an assist in a 5-0 win over Emerson College in a quarterfinal game of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament. She also had two goals and two assists in a 7-0 victory over Rivier College in the regular season finale.

A psychology major, Thornton is tied for the team lead in scoring with 26 points (7 goals, team high 12 assists).

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2003
WNEC 5, Emerson 0
(GNAC Tournament - Quarterfinals)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) had three goals and an assist to lead Western New England College to a 5-0 victory over Emerson College in a quarterfinal game of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament.

Thornton, whose older brother Scott Thornton is a junior co-captain on the WNEC men's soccer team, is now tied with junior Jana Loper for the team lead in scoring with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists).

Sophomore Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA) gave the Golden Bears (8-9-1) a 1-0 lead with her sixth goal of the season 8:02 into the contest.

Freshman Ashley St. John (Barre, VT) had the other goal. Freshman Kait Jarret (Douglas, MA) contributed an assist.

WNEC had a 13-1 shot advantage over Emerson. The Golden Bears have won their last four matches by an 18-1 margin.

"We seem to be peaking at the right time," said WNEC coach Ron Dias who collected his 130th all-time victory. "Our players understand that they have to pick it up a notch at playoff time and we did that against Emerson."

Western New England College, seeded third, will meet second-seeded Johnson & Wales University in the GNAC Tournament semifinals on Tuesday. The site and time will be announced.

Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003
WNEC 7, Rivier 0

NASHUA, N.H. - Playing only a few miles from her home, freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) scored two goals and had two assists to lead Western New England College to an easy 7-0 victory over Rivier College in the regular season finale.

Sophomore Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA) contributed two goals while freshmen Kait Jarret (Douglas, MA) and Renee Robichaud (Peabody, MA) each added a goal and assist. Sophomore Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) had the other goal.

The victory was the third straight for the Golden Bears (7-9-1) who finished third in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with a 6-2-1 mark while securing a home match for the quarterfinal round of the conference tournament.

Saturday, Oct. 25, 2003
WNEC 4, St. Joseph, Conn. 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Western New England College turned in a successful Senior Day performance with an important 4-0 victory over St. Joseph College (Conn.) in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

Junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) and freshman Ashley St. John (Barre, VT) each had a goal and assist for the Golden Bears who moved into better position for a possible home match in the upcoming playoffs. Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) contributed assists on each of their goals that gave WNEC a 2-0 half-time lead.

Sophomore Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA) and freshman Jen Woishnis (Chicopee, MA) scored in the second half. It was the first collegiate goal for Woishnis who joined the team earlier this month.

Three senior defenders played their final regular season home match, co-captains Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) and Jess Hulsey (Springfield, MA) and reserve Melissa Stone (South Deerfield, MA).

Western New England College is now 6-9-1 overall and 5-2-1 in the GNAC while St. Joseph falls to 8-6 and 5-3.

Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003
WNEC 2, Emerson 1

BOSTON, Mass. - Western New England College snapped a three-game losing streak with a 2-1 victory over Emerson College in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

The Golden Bears took a 2-0 half-time lead on goals by junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) (her team high 10th of the season) and sophomore Renee Robichaud (Peabody, MA) (the first of her collegiate career).

Freshman Ashley St. John (Barre, VT) had two assists and classmate Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) one assist as Western New England College improved its record to 5-9-1 overall and 4-2-1 in the conference.

Saturday, Oct. 18, 2003
Johnson & Wales 3, WNEC 1

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Johnson & Wales University scored a pair of second half goals to take a 3-1 victory over Western New England College in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

Freshman Kait Jarrett (Douglas, MA) had the goal for the Golden Bears that tied the game in the 16th minute. Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) had the assist. WNEC is now 4-9-1 overall and 3-2-1 in the conference with three matches left in the regular season.

Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2003
Western Connecticut 2, WNEC 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Western Connecticut State University sophomore Nicole Corbin (Clinton, CT) was too much for Western New England College as she scored a goal and had an assist in a 2-0 non-conference win.

WNEC freshmen goalies Jackie Boychuk (Avon, CT) and Marisa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) combined for five saves.

The Golden Bears (4-8-1) held their own against the Colonials playing to a 0-0 tie at half-time.

Written by Ryan Emerson '05, WNEC athletic communications student assistant

Saturday, Oct. 11, 2003
Simmons 2, WNEC 1

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Freshman Nicole Zeilinski (Foxboro, MA) scored two second half goals, including the game-winner in the 71st minute, to lead visiting Simmons College to a 2-1 victory over Western New England College in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

Senior Alia Sullivan (Middleboro, MA) made 11 saves for the Sharks who improved their record to 5-7-1 and 4-1-1 in the GNAC.

WNEC took a 1-0 lead on a goal by freshman Ashley St. John (Barre, VT) in the 19th minute. The Golden Bears fall to 4-7-1 overall and 3-1-1 after suffering their first conference loss.

Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2003
WNEC 4, Norwich 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Freshman Coral Gavriilidis (Northvale, NJ) scored her second and third goals of the season leading Western New England College to a 4-0 victory over visiting Norwich University in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

The Golden Bears (4-6-1, 3-0-1 GNAC) also had contributions from Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) who scored the first goal in 15th minute and then added an assist.

Also adding assists were freshmen Kristen Thornton (Bedford, NH) and sophomore Jill Lawson (Agawam, MA).

Norwich sophomore keeper Meagan Fleshman (Troy, NY) finished with nine saves. Here twin sister Melissa is a defender for Western New England College. The Cadets fall to 3-7-1 and 1-3-1 in the GNAC.

- Written by Nicholas DiOrio '06, WNEC athletic communications student assistant

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2003
WNEC 1, Emmanuel 1 (2ot)

BOSTON, Mass. — Western New England College and Emmanuel College played to a 1-1 overtime tie in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) gave the Golden Bears a 1-0 lead after scoring an unassisted goal in the 44th minute.

Freshman keeper Marissa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) compiled seven saves for WNEC (3-6-1, 2-0-1 GNAC).

Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2003
Williams 5, WNEC 0

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Western New England College fell to 3-6 after suffering a 5-0 non-conference loss against Williams College.

The Golden Bears trailed only 2-0 at half-time before the Ephs broke the game open with three second half goals.

Freshman keeper Marissa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) finished with 13 saves.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2003
WNEC 9, Pine Manor 0

LUDLOW, Mass. — Junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) and freshman Kait Jarret (Douglas, MA) each scored two goals with an assist as Western New England College blanked Pine Manor College, 9-0, in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match held at Lusitano Stadium.

Seven players for the Golden Bears who improved their record to 3-5 and 2-0 in the conference.

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2003
WNEC 11, Southern Vermont 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) scored a career high five goals as Western New England College opened its Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) season with an 11-victory over Southern Vermont College.

Loper also tied the school record previously set by Molly Burke on four occasions, the last time against Emmanuel College on October 9, 2002.

Seven players scored goals for the Golden Bears who improved their record to 2-5.

Thursday, Sept. 18, 2003
Connecticut College 5, WNEC 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College fell to 1-5 with a 5-0 loss against Connecticut College in a non-conference match.

The Golden Bears missed a couple of scoring opportunities early in the opening half, then had a goal disallowed because of a delayed offside call in the 11th minute.

The Camels then scored three goals in a 16-minute stretch to take a 3-0 lead at half-time.

JANA LOPER SELECTED AS THE WNEC FEMALE ATHLETE-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) was honored Tuesday (Sept. 16) as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week.

Loper compiled six points after scoring two goals with two assists in a 6-0 victory over Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts on September 10 that was the first win of the season for the Golden Bears. She is a psychology major.

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2003
WNEC 6, Massachusetts College 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Freshman Kait Jarrett (Douglas, MA) recorded her first collegiate goal and then went on to compile her first hat trick as Western New England College won its first game of the season with a 6-0 victory over Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

The Golden Bears (1-4) also received a strong game from junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) who had two goals and two assists.

Sophomore Lindsay Estock (Southwick, MA) had the first goal of her collegiate career while freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) added two assists.

WNEC started the season with four straight road losses and had scored only one goal prior to today's match.

Sunday, Sept. 7, 2003
Drew Fall Festival (Madison, NJ)
Goucher, Md. 1, WNEC 0

MADISON, N.J. — Goucher College of Maryland scored a goal in the 35th minute and that was enough for a 1-0 victory over Western New England College in the third-place match of the Drew Fall Festival.

Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003
Drew Fall Festival (Madison, NJ)
Aracdia, Pa. 2, WNEC 1

MADISON, N.J. — Aracdia College of Pennsylvania advanced to the championship match of the Drew Fall Festival with a 2-1 victory over Western New England College.

Freshman Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) gave the Golden Bears a 1-0 lead with her first collegiate goal in the 56th minute.

The Knights tied the contest 1:21 later and scored the game-winner with 29 seconds left in the game.

Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003
Springfield 4, WNEC 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Host Springfield College avenged last year's 1-0 loss with a 4-0 victory over Western New England College. The Pride gained momentum after taking a 1-0 lead with 25 seconds left before half-time.

Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003
Keene State 5, WNEC 0

KEENE, N.H. — Keene State College scored twice in the first seven minutes and never looked back in taking a 5-0 victory over Western New England College in the season opener for both teams. Freshman Marissa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) made 11 saves for the Golden Bears.

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE HAS BIG SHOES TO FILL IN 2003

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College's women's soccer team will have a new look this fall as it challenges for a third straight Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title.

The Golden Bears open their 20th season on Tuesday, September 2, at perennial regional power Keene State College.

Last year, Western New England College posted a 16-7 record for its eighth consecutive winning season and second highest win total in its history. The Golden Bears also repeated as GNAC Tournament champions and participated in the NCAA Division III Championship for the third time in four years losing its opening round match on penalty kicks at Bridgewater State College.

"We have a difficult non-conference schedule and are on the road for our first four matches, including a trip to New Jersey for the Drew Fall Classic," said coach Ron Dias who is in his 10th season. "Obviously, we need to pull things together very quickly.

"This is going to be an interesting year because we have some big shoes to fill after losing five seniors and starting goal keeper Jessica Vital," he stated.

The Golden Bears' biggest loss is forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) who ended her sensational career eighth on the all-time NCAA Division III scoring list with 242 points (100 goals, 42 assists). She also was a first-team All-New England performer and two time GNAC Player-of-the-Year.

Four-year starter and two-time All-GNAC midfielder Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) graduated after scoring 70 career points (sixth on the WNEC list). She also was a Verizon Academic All-America selection in 2002.

Vital (Ludlow, MA), a two-time All-GNAC selection, compiled a 0.48 goals-against-average (14th nationally) with 14 shutouts. She had a 0.56 goals-against-average and 18 shutouts in 40 matches during her two years with the program.

"Those individuals were great players, but we have several returning veterans along with some promising newcomers who could help us immediately," Dias noted.

Senior co-captains Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA — Central High School) and Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) anchored the Golden Bears defense that was 10th nationally last year in goals-against-average (0.47). Johnson is a two-time All-GNAC player.

"Both individuals are proven defenders who will provide excellent leadership," said Dias.

Also returning are junior Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT), a two-time All-GNAC performer who was third on the team in scoring last year with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists), and sophomore Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) who enjoyed a solid rookie campaign with 16 points (6 goals, 4 assists).

Dias was pleased with his recruiting class that included keepers Marisa Sullivan (Halesite, NY) and Jacqueline Boychuk (Avon, CT). Sullivan played on the Long Island Junior Select UnderÐ17 team while Boychuck was the starter on the two-time Avon High School Division I state championship squad.

Another freshman to watch is midfielder Kristin Thornton (Bedford, NH) whose older brother Scott is a junior tri-captain on the WNEC men's soccer team.

"Kristin understands the game very well and could be an impact player with our program," noted Dias.

Items of Interest: Dias is the winningest women's soccer coach in school history with a 122-62-4 record (65.4%)É Matt Gour (East Longmeadow, MA) is the new assistant coach this season. "Matt graduated from St. Leo University in Florida and played for me on several Western Massachusetts United Teams. He will be a great addition although I hate to lose my son Mike who moved to Boston after coaching here the last two season," said Ron DiasÉ The Golden Bears all-time record is 172-148-8 (53.7%).

JACQUIE BAILEY NAMED WNEC FEMALE SCHOLAR-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (April 27, 2003) — Soccer captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) was named the Western New England College Female Senior Scholar Athlete-of-the-Year Sunday at the school's Honors Convocation.

Bailey has a 3.88 cumulative grade-point-average in psychology/elementary education. Last fall she became was the first WNEC women's soccer player named to the Verizon Academic All-America College Division Team.

A midfielder, Bailey was second on the Golden Bears in scoring with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists) and was selected the team's Offensive MVP. She was named to the All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Second Team and the All-GNAC Tournament squad. Bailey was an All-GNAC First Team choice in 2001.

Western New England College posted a 16-7 record for its eighth consecutive winning season and second highest win total in the program's 19-year history. The Golden Bears also repeated as GNAC regular season and tournament champions, and participated in the NCAA Division III Championship for the third time in four years.

GOLDEN BEARS RELEASE AMBITIOUS 2003 SCHEDULE

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Mar. 6, 2003) — Western New England College will face some formidable opponents to start the 2003 season.

Last year the Golden Bears posted a 16-7 record for their eighth straight winning season and second highest win total in its 19-year history.

Western New England College repeated as Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament champions and participated in the NCAA Division III Championship for the third time in four years.

WNEC opens pre-season drills on August 24 and its season at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 2, with a match at Little East champion Keene State College.

Two days later Western New England College travels down Wilbraham Road and Alden Street to play city rival Springfield College.

The Golden Bears then travel to Drew University in Madison, New Jersey on September 6-7 to participate in the Drew University Tournament.

WNEC will play Arcadia University (Pa.), who finished last season with a 12-6-1 record, in a first-round contest. The winner will play either Drew University or Goucher College (Md.) on September 7.

In addition to the 10-game Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) schedule, Western New England College will play perennial powers Connecticut College, Williams College, and Western Connecticut State University.

Coach Ron Dias is cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season.

"We have some big holes to fill since we graduated six seniors including two-time GNAC Player of the Year and All-New England performer Molly Burke," said Dias who will start his 10th season on the Golden Bears' sideline.

WNEC also will be without All-GNAC players Jackie Bailey and leading conference keeper Jessica Vital plus three other valuable contributors, Andrea Marangoudakis, Danielle Brooks, and Sarah Leggio.

"We play a very competitive non-conference schedule and our goal is to compete for the GNAC title again this year," stated Dias.

Co-Captains Announced

Dias also announced that seniors Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA) and Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) will serve as 2003 co-captains.

"Jess and Laina are great players and proven leaders. I feel very confident that they will be excellent role models for our younger players. Both have been on Championship teams and they know what it takes to get to that level," Dias noted.

Dias is hopeful that his son Mike Dias will be returning as assistant coach.

"Mike is a great asset to our program but he is still playing for the Western Massachusetts Pioneers and work commitments have to be considered, but hopefully he will be able to work out his schedule," said his father.

2002 GREAT NORTHEAST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (GNAC) CHAMPIONS

2002 NCAA Division III Tournament participants

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE RANKS HIGH IN NATIONAL STATISTICS

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Jan. 7, 2003) — Western New England College sophomore goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) was ranked 14th in goals-against average (0.48) in the final NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Statistics. She allowed only 11 goals in 2048 minutes with 13 shutouts in 23 matches this past season. In two years Vital had 18 shutouts in 40 starts allowing only 20 goals in 3226 minutes (0.56 gaa).

Senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) was 18th in points per game (2.91) and 20th in goals per game (1.17) after scoring 67 points (27 goals, 13 assists) in 23 contests. Burke finished her sensational career with 242 points (eighth on the all-time NCAA Division III list) and 100 goals (10th).

WNEC is the only school in the nation with two players ranked in the top 10 among all-time NCAA Division III scorers. Besides Burke, former standout Kate Brunelle (East Longmeadow, MA) is ninth with 241 points (93 goals, 55 assists).

Coach Ron Dias' team posted a 16-7 record this past fall, which was the second highest win total in the program's 19-year history. The Golden Bears were 10th nationally in goals-against-average (0.47) and 12th in shutout percentage (0.65).

Western New England College Fall Sports Banquet
Saturday, Dec. 7, 2002
List of Award Recipients

Women's Soccer
Most Valuable Player — Senior Molly Burke (Westfield, MA).
Offensive Most Valuable Player — Senior Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA).
Defensive Most Valuable Player — Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA).
Coaches Award — Freshman Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA).
Rookie-of-the-Year — Freshman Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY)

JACQUIE BAILEY NAMED TO THE VERIZON ACADEMIC ALL-AMERICA WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College women's soccer co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) was named Tuesday (Nov. 26) to the 2002 Verizon Academic All-America College Division Women's Soccer third team.

Bailey, a senior midfielder, has a 3.88 cumulative grade-point-average in psychology/elementary education.

She is the first WNEC women's soccer player (and sixth student in school history) selected to a Verizon Academic team.

Bailey was one of two players from the New England region earning a spot on the 33-player Verizon Academic Team. Wentworth Institute of Technology junior Sarah Bearse (Tiverton, RI) was a second team honoree.

Bailey was the Golden Bears' second leading scorer with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists) this fall. She was named to the All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) second team and the All-GNAC Tournament squad. Bailey was an All-GNAC first team choice in 2001.

Western New England College posted a 16-7 record for its eighth consecutive winning season and second highest win total in the program's 19-year history. The Golden Bears also repeated as GNAC Tournament champions and participated in the NCAA Division III Championship for the third time in four years.

Western New England College student-athletes on the Verizon Academic All-America Team

1981 — Roma St. George (Chicopee, Mass.), women's basketball
1982 — Roma St. George (Chicopee, Mass.), women's basketball
1989 — Gary Bourque (Torrington, Conn.), men's basketball
2001 — Laura Sturgis (Westborough, Mass.), womenÕs lacrosse (1st)
2002 — Kate Farry (Pittsfield, Mass.), softball (2nd) 2002 — Marcie Bruder (Keene, N.H.), softball (3rd)
2002 — Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, Mass.), women's soccer (3rd)

MOLLY BURKE RECEIVES SECOND STRAIGHT GNAC PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR AWARD

Five Golden Bears named All-GNAC; Ron Dias selected GNAC Coach-of-the-Year

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 19, 2002) — Western New England College senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) received her second straight Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) WomenÕs Soccer Player-of-the-Year Award on Tuesday.

Burke also made the All-GNAC first team with junior defender Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) and sophomore goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA).

Senior midfielder Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) and sophomore forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) were selected to the All-GNAC second team.

Burke, a team co-captain, led the Golden Bears in scoring with 67 points (27 goals, 13 assists) this past season. She finished her brilliant career with a school record 242 points (100 goals, 42 assists), which ranks eighth on the all-time NCAA Division III scoring list. During the season Burke also became the 10th player in NCAA Division III history to score 100 goals.

Johnson and Vital both made the All-GNAC first team for the second consecutive year after anchoring the Golden Bears defense that allowed only 11 goals during the season. Johnson also contributed eight points (1 goal, 6 assists) while Vital compiled a 0.48 goals-against-average with 14 shutouts.

Bailey was second on the team in scoring with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists). A team co-captain, she was an All-GNAC first team choice in 2001.

Loper was a repeat selection on the All-GNAC second unit after finishing third on the squad in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists). She had the winning goal in a 1-0 win over Johnson & Wales University in the GNAC Tournament championship match.

Ron Dias of Western New England College was voted the GNAC Coach-of-the-Year for the second straight season. A native of Ludlow, he has a 122-62-4 record (66.0 winning percentage) in nine seasons.

SOPHOMORE JESSICA VITAL NAMED WNEC FEMALE ATHLETE-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 19, 2002) — Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) was honored Tuesday as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week.

Vital, a goalkeeper, made six saves as Western New England College and host Bridgewater State College battled to a 0-0 tie after 110 minutes of regulation and two overtime periods in a first round match of the NCAA Division III Championship. Bridgewater advanced to the second round on penalty kicks (3-2).

A pharmacy major, Vital compiled a 0.48 goals-against-average with 13 shutouts this fall in gaining All-Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNC) first team recognition for the second straight year.

NCAA Division III Championship (First Round)
Thursday, Nov. 14, 2002
WNEC 0, Bridgewater State 0 (Bridgewater advances to penalty kicks, 3-2)

BRIDGEWATER, Mass. (Nov. 12, 2002) — Western New England College and Bridgewater State College played a 0-0 tie after 110 minutes of regulation and two overtime periods, but the Golden Bears were eliminated from the NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Tournament after losing the match of penalty kicks, 3-2.

Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) and junior Kelly Quinn (East Longmeadow, MA) each scored to give WNEC a 2-1 lead after the first two rounds of the shoot-out.

BSC (14-5) then went ahead 3-2, but missed its next shot before goalie Maura Cacciatore preserved the win by making the last of three straight saves.

Cacciatore compiled six saves during the game, as did WNEC sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA).

Western New England College ends its season with a 16-7 record, which are the second most wins in school history. This was the Golden Bears' second straight appearance in the national tournament and third visit in four years.

SOPHOMORE JANA LOPER HONORED AS THE WNEC FEMALE ATHLETE-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 12, 2002) — Sophomore Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) was honored Tuesday (Nov. 12) as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week.

Loper, a forward, scored the game-winner in a 1-0 victory over Johnson & Wales University in the championship match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championship. She also had the winning goal in a 1-0 win over Norwich University in the conference tournament semifinal game.

Loper was named the GNAC Player-of-the-Week on Monday (Nov. 11). She is third on the team in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists).

WNEC VISITS BRIDGEWATER STATE COLLEGE IN NCAA DIVISION III TOURNAMENT

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 11, 2002) — Western New England College will visit Bridgewater State College in a first round match of the NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Championship starting at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday (Nov. 13) at Swenson Field in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

The Golden Bears qualified for their second straight national tournament (and third in four years) after repeating as Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament champions following a 1-0 win over Johnson & Wales University in a battle of 2000 and 2001 finalists.

WNEC enters the tournament with a 16-6 record, which is the second highest win total in school history. The Golden Bears have won their last eight matches, all by shutouts.

Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) enjoyed a record-breaking season after establishing school marks in career points (242) and goals (100). She is only the 10th player in NCAA Division III history to reach the 100-goal mark. Burke, a forward, leads the team in scoring with 67 points (27 goals, 13 assists).

Senior midfielder and team co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) is second on the squad with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists).

Sophomore forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) is third with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists). Loper, the GNAC Player-of-the-Week, scored the winning goal against Johnson & Wales and netted the game-winner in a 1-0 victory over Norwich University in a GNAC Tournament semifinal contest.

Freshman midfielder Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) enjoyed a fine rookie season by scoring 16 points (6 goals, 4 assists).

Sophomore goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) has a 0.51 goals-against-average and 12 shutouts. Bridgewater State has a 13-5 record after defeating Framingham State College, 2-0, in the championship game of the Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference.

The WNEC-Bridgewater State winner will visit Wheaton College (20-1) in a second round contest.

GNAC Tournament (final)
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2002
WNEC 1, Johnson & Wales 0

JANA LOPER SCORES WINNING GOAL (AGAIN) AS WNEC BLANKS JOHNSON & WALES, 1-0, TO WIN GNAC TOURNAMENT TITLE

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 9, 2002) — Sophomore forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) scored a goal in the 69th minute that proved to be the game-winner as Western New England College successfully defended its Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament title with a 1-0 victory over visiting Johnson & Wales University.

Loper also had the winning goal in a 1-0 win over Norwich University in a tournament semifinal match on Tuesday.

With the victory, WNEC (16-6) advances to its second straight (and third in four years) NCAA Division III Championship, which begins Wednesday at campus sites.

Freshman midfielder Liz Eldridge ((Westboro, MA) had the assist on the winning shot while sophomore goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made five saves for her 12th shutout of the season.

Senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) was named the tournament MVP.

Senior goalkeeper Steph Petreccia (West Warwick, RI) compiled four saves for the Wildcats (14-7-1).

WNEC has won eight consecutive matches, all by shutout.

This was the fourth GNAC Tournament championship match decided by a single goal. WNEC defeated Johnson & Wales, 2-1, last year in Warwick, Rhode Land. The Wildcats posted a 3-2 decision over the Golden Bears in Providence, Rhode Island in 2000. WNEC beat visiting Simmons, 2-1, for its first GNAC Tournament title in 1999.

JACQUIE BAILEY NAMED TO VERIZON DISTRICT 1 ACADEMIC TEAM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College women's soccer co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) was named Thursday (Nov. 7) to the Verizon Academic District 1 College Division Women's Soccer Team.

Bailey, a senior midfielder, has a 3.88 cumulative grade-point-average in psychology/elementary education. She also is the team's second leading scorer with 26 points (7 goals, 12 assists).

Bailey's name will now be put on the national ballot with the announcement of the honor squad scheduled for November 26.

WNEC (15-6) will host Johnson & Wales University (14-6-1) in the championship match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament at 1 p.m. Saturday, November 9.

GNAC Tournament (semifinals)
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2002
WNEC 1, Norwich 0

JANA LOPER'S WINNING SHOT GIVES WNEC A 1-0 WIN OVER NORWICH UNIVERSITY

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Sophomore forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) scored the game-winner with 10:24 remaining in the match to lead Western New England College to a 1-0 victory over Norwich University in a semifinal game of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament.

Freshman Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA) received the assist. Sophomore goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made two saves in recording her 11th shutout of the season.

Norwich freshman Megan Fleshman (Troy, NY) compiled eight saves in a solid performance. Her twin sister Melissa Fleshman plays a back position for WNEC.

Western New England has a 15-6 record, which is the second highest win total in the program's 19-year history. The Golden Bears also have won seven straight matches (all by shutouts).

WNEC will host either Johnson & Wales University or Emmanuel College in the GNAC Tournament championship game on Saturday. The winner receives an automatic berth in the NCAA Division III Championship.

GNAC Tournament (quarterfinals)
Saturday, Nov. 2, 2002
WNEC 3, St. Joseph (Conn.) 0
Norwich 2, Emerson 1

MOLLY BURKE SCORES 100TH CAREER GOAL IN 3-0 VICTORY OVER ST. JOSEPH (CONN.)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored the 100th goal of her sensational career and set a school record with 242 career points as Western New England College defeated St. Joseph College (Conn.) by the score of 3-0 in a quarterfinal match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament.

Burke scored the game-winner in the 8th minute to pass former teammate Kate Brunelle who compiled 241 points from 1995-98.

Burke is only the 10th NCAA Division III player to score 100 career goals.

Freshman Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) and Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY) each added a goal for the Golden Bears who improved their record to 14-6 with their sixth consecutive victory by shutout.

WNEC will host Norwich University on Tuesday (Nov. 5) in a GNAC Tournament semifinal match. Game time will be announced on Monday.

Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2002
WNEC 7, Rivier 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored four goals and had an assist as Western New England College clinched the regular season Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) title with an easy 7-0 victory over visiting Rivier College.

The win gave WNEC a 13-6 record and 9-1 conference mark.

Burke now has 65 points this season (26 goals, 13 assists) and a school record 99 career goals.

Senior co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) had a goal and two assists. Sophomore Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) scored the first goal 1:34 into the game and freshman Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) made it 2-0 with a score in the sixth minute with an assist from Loper.

Coach Ron Dias' squad has won its last five matches, all by shutouts.

The Golden Bears host St. Joseph (Conn.) at noon Saturday in a GNAC Tournament quarterfinal matchup.

MOLLY BURKE NAMED GNAC PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Western New England College senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) was named Monday (Oct. 28) as the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Soccer Player-of-the-Week.

Burke had a school record 94th career goal and an assist in a win over Westfield State College. She also had the game-winner in a 1-0 victory over conference rival Johnson & Wales University. Burke, a criminal justice major, is second in the conference with 56 points (22 goals, 12 assists).

In other news,

Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) is first among women's soccer goalkeepers in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with a 0.69 goals-against-average. She has allowed only 11 goals in 1,578 minutes and has eight shutouts. Vital is a pharmacy major.

WNEC (12-6) hosts Rivier College at 3 p.m. Wednesday (Oct. 30) in the final game of the regular season. The Golden Bears (8-1 GNAC) can clinch first place in the conference and home field advantage throughout the playoffs with a victory.

Sunday, Oct. 27, 2002
WNEC 2, St. Joseph (Conn.) 0

WEST HARTFORD , Conn. (Oct. 30, 2002) — Freshman Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) had the game-winning goal for the second time in three matches as visiting Western New England College posted a 2-0 victory over St. Joseph (Connecticut). Sophomore Jana Loper (Glastobury, CT) had the assist.

Senior co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) scored the other goal while sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) had two saves for her eighth shutout of the fall.

WNEC is 12-6 overall and 7-1 in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference. The Golden Bears have won their last four matches by shutout.

Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2002
WNEC 1, Johnson & Wales 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Oct. 23, 2002) — Senior Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored the game-winner with 7:31 remaining to lead Western New England College to a 1-0 win over visiting Johnson & Wales University in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match at chilly Suprenant Field.

Senior co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) received the assist on Burke's winning score. Burke now has 95 career goals.

The victory was the third straight for the Golden Bears (11-6) who are second in the GNAC with a 7-1 mark. It was the first loss conference loss of the season for the Wildcats (11-5-1) who remain in first place in the GNAC with an 8-1 record.

Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made seven saves for her seventh shutout of the year.

This was WNEC's fourth 1-0 win of the season, and it could help the Golden Bears have home field advantage throughout the playoffs if the team wins its final two regular season matches.

SENIOR CO-CAPTAIN JACQUIE BAILEY SELECTED WNEC FEMALE ATHLETE-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Oct. 22, 2002) — Soccer co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) was honored Tuesday as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week.

Bailey, a senior midfielder, scored two goals with two assists in an 8-0 victory over Daniel Webster College. She is second on the team in scoring with 16 points (4 goals, 8 assists). Bailey is a Dean's List psychology/elementary education major.

WNEC has an overall 10-6 record and 6-1 mark entering a match at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday with conference leader Johnson & Wales University (11-4-1, 8-0).

Monday, Oct. 21, 2002
WNEC 3, Westfield State 0

MOLLY BURKE SETS SCHOOL RECORD FOR CAREER GOALS

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored a goal and added an assist to lead Western New England College to a 3-0 non-conference victory over visiting Westfield State College.

Burke's goal in the 78th minute was the school record 94th of her career, breaking the old mark of 93 set by former teammate Katie Brunelle.

Senior co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) and freshman Liz Eldridge (Westboro, MA) also scored for the Golden Bears who improved their record to 10-6.

Sophmore Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) contributed two assists while classmate Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made six saves.

Saturday, Oct. 19, 2002
WNEC 8, Daniel Webster 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. Ð Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) had four goals and two assists as Western New England College posted an 8-0 victory over visiting Daniel Webster College. Burke now has 93 goals, which ties the school record set by Katie Brunelle (1995-98).

Senior co-captain Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) added two goals and two assists for the golden Bears who are now 9-6 overall and 6-1 in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference.

Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2002
Western Connecticut 1, WNEC 0

DANBURY, Conn. — Western New England College lost a 1-0 decision to host Western Connecticut State University in a non-conference battle under the lights. It was the Golden Bears' second straight 1-0 loss and third of the season. WNEC is now 8-6.

Saturday, Oct. 12, 2002
Simmons 1, WNEC 0

BOSTON, Mass. — Simmons College scored in the 87th minute for a 1-0 upset win over visiting Western New England College in Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC). WNEC falls to 8-5 overall and 5-1 in the conference.

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2002
WNEC 7, Emmanuel 1

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored five goals and had one assist as Western New England College cruised past visiting Emmanuel College in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) match.

The Golden Bears improved their record to 8-4 and remained unbeaten in the conference with a 5-0 mark. WNEC started the week tied for first in the GNAC with Johnson & Wales University.

Saturday, Oct. 5, 2002
WNEC 1, Norwich 0

NORTHFIELD, Vt. — Sophomore Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) had the game winner in the 39th minute as Western New England College remained undefeated in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with a 1-0 victory over host Norwich University. The Golden Bears improve their record to 7-4 overall and 4-0 in the conference. Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made four saves.

Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2002
Williams 2, WNEC 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — No. 22 Williams College scored a pair of first half goals for a 2-0 victory over host Western New England College. The Golden Bears (6-4) played well in the second half against the Ephs who are ranked fourth in New England. Sophomore Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made eight saves.

MOLLY BURKE NAMED GNAC PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Sept. 30, 2002) — Western New England College senior Molly Burke (Westfield, MA — St. Mary High School) was selected Monday (Sept. 30) as the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Soccer Player-of-the-Week.

Burke had 16 points (6 goals, 4 assists) in two matches last week. She scored five goals and had two assists against Pine Manor College and moved passed the 200-point mark (205) in career scoring. She is a criminal justice major.

Sunday, Sept. 29, 2002
WNEC 13, Pine Manor 0

CHESTNUT HILL , Mass. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored five goals and added two assists as Western New England College remained undefeated in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) with an 13-0 shutout over host Pine Manor College. Burke also played goalkeeper the last 35 minutes of the match.

It was the most goals for the the Golden Bears (6-3, 3-0 GNAC) since a 14-0 win over Daniel Webster College in 1995.

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2002
WNEC 5, Emerson 1

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) had a goal and two assists, and junior Jess Hulsey (Springfield, MA) added a goal and assist as Western New England College posted a 5-1 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) victory over visiting Emerson College. WNEC led 2-0 at half-time before Burke scored a goal and assist within a 50-second span in the 55th minute to put the match out of reach. The Golden Bears are now 5-3 overall and 2-0 in the GNAC.

FORMER GOLDEN BEARS STANDOUT JOY CLARK INDUCTED INTO DOWNES ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

WNEC salutes two-sport star for contributions to program

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Former Golden Bears standout Joy E. Clark Cunningham '95 was among six individuals inducted into the fourth annual Western New England College Downes Athletic Hall of Fame on September 21, 2002, during Homecoming Weekend.

Cunningham, a native of Agawam, Massachusetts, ranks among the top women's soccer players in school history. She was a three-year starter at a sweeper position and a team captain her senior season. Cunningham was named to the New England Women's Athletic Conference (NEWAC) All-Star Team in 1996. She also contributed 21 points (8 goals, 5 assists) during her career.

In basketball, Cunningham was a four-year performer at a guard position. She is third in career three-pointers (80), and fifth in both assists (260) and steals (213).

Cunningham earned a bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering. She resides in Middletown, Connecticut.

Western New England College's Athletic Hall of Fame is named in honor of former professor and present men's golf coach William Arthur (Red) Downes who was among the inaugural group inducted in 1999.

The Class of 2002 also featured Peter M. Black '87, men's lacrosse; Alan J. Fabian '89, baseball; Brian J. Solomon '84 and his brother Gary J. Solomon '86, both wrestling, and former baseball, women's soccer, and women's tennis coach Patrick A. Ricci.

Saturday, Sept. 21, 2002
WNEC 7, Southern Vermont 0

BENNINGTON, Vt. — Senior co-captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) had a goal and three assists as Western New England College blanked host Southern Vermont College 7-0 in its Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) opener. WNEC improves its record to 4-3.

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2002
Connecticut College 2, WNEC 0

NEW LONDON , Conn. — Connecticut College scored both of its goals in the second half for a 2-0 non-conference win over visiting Western New England College. Sophomore keeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) had seven saves for the Golden Bears (3-3).

MOLLY BURKE AND JESS HULSEY RECEIVE SOCCER AWARDS

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Sept. 17, 2002) — Women's soccer captain Molly Burke (Westfield, MA — St. Mary High School) was honored Tuesday (Sept. 17) as the Western New England College Female Athlete-of-the-Week.

Burke, a senior forward, scored three goals in a 3-0 win over Plymouth State College in the Plattsburgh Cardinal Classic. She also added the winning assist in a 1-0 overtime victory at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Burke also was named to the Plattsburgh Cardinal Classic All-Tournament Team.

In other news, WNEC senior women's soccer defender Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA — Central High School) was named to the Plattsburgh Cardinal Classic All-Tournament Team.

Sunday, Sept. 15, 2002
Plattsburgh State 2, WNEC 0 (Pepsi Cardinal Classic)

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — Western New England College dropped a 2-0 decision to host Plattsburgh State University in the championship game of the Pepsi Cardinal Classic. Senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) and junior back Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA) made the All-Tournament Team. The Golden Bears are now 3-2.

Saturday, Sept. 14, 2002
WNEC 3, Plymouth State 0 (Pepsi Cardinal Classic)

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — Senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) scored all three goals to lead Western New England College to a 3-0 victory over Plymouth State College in an opening round match of the Cardinal Classic.

WNEC (3-1) will play host Plattsburgh State at 2 p.m. Sunday in the championship match. Plattsburgh defeated Massachusetts College 2-0.

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2002
WNEC 1, Mass. College 0 (ot)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Freshman midfielder Jill Lawson (Agawam, MA) scored the game winner in the 95th minute with her first collegiate goal in the first overtime period to lift Western New England College to a 1-0 victory over host Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

Saturday, Sept. 7, 2002
WNEC 1, Springfield 0

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) made her first goal of the season the game-winner as Western New England College held on for a 1-0 victory over city rival Springfield College.

Burke's goal in the 34th minute gave the Golden Bears (1-1) their first win of the season. WNEC dropped its season opener against Keene State College (1-0 in double overtime) last Wednesday.

Sophomore keeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made nine saves, including several key stops late in the second half. Junior back Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA) played well down the stretch with a couple of nice clearing kicks.

Last year Springfield defeated WNEC 1-0 in double overtime. Vital had six saves in her collegiate debut.

Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2002
Keene State 1, WNEC 0 (ot)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Senior Suzanne Heinkel scored the game-winner 2:05 into overtime to lead visiting Keene State College to a 1-0 victory over Western New England College in the season opener for both teams. WNEC sophomore keeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) played a great match, finishing with 10 saves.

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE LOOKS FOR RETURN TRIP TO NCAA TOURNAMENT

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The goals are simple for the Western New England College women's soccer team this season - repeat as Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament champions and participate in the NCAA Division III Championship.

WNEC accomplished both last year winning the GNAC Tournament with a thrilling 2-1 win over top-seeded (and defending champion) Johnson & Wales University, and then making a respectable showing in the national tournament with a 3-0 loss against No. 1 The College of New Jersey in the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament. The Golden Bears finished with a 14-8-1 record for their seventh consecutive winning season.

Coach Ron Dias lost eight players from that talented squad, including midfielder Kristen Ogulewicz (Springfield, MA) who graduated as the school's all-time leader in assists (67) and NCAA single season assists leader (30).

The Golden Bears, however, have six returning All-Conference players led by senior co-captains Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) and Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA). Burke, a forward, was the 2001 GNAC Player-of-the-Year after leading the conference with 55 points (23 goals, 9 assists). She is the program's second all-time leading scorer with 175 points (73 goals, 29 assists). Bailey contributed 12 points (4 goals, 4 assists) from a midfield position.

Burke and Bailey earned spots on the All-GNAC First Team along with junior back Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) and sophomore keeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) who compiled an impressive 0.69 goals-against-average in her rookie season.

Also returning sophomore All-GNAC Second Team performers, forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) and back Amy Camerota (Westfield, MA). Loper was third on the team in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 8 assists).

WNEC has a veteran senior class with backs Danielle Brooks (Ashland, MA) and Sarah Leggio (Palenville, NY), and forward Andrea Marangoudakis (Springfield, MA) ready for another winning season. Dias also has three top juniors in backs Melissa Stone (South Deerfield, MA) and Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA) who returns following an injury, and midfielder Kelly Quinn (East Longmeadow, MA). Sophomore forwards Rachel Brown (Embden, ME) and Jillian Boutin (N. Sidney, ME) are solid players.

Western New England College has a promising freshmen class led by local products Rene Guyer (Granby, MA), Lindsey Estock (Southwick, MA), Alysa Lastowski (Holyoke, MA), and Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA).

Other first-year players to watch are Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY), Samantha Matney (Kettle Falls, WA), Lauren Demaio (Vernon, CT), and Rene Robichaud (Peabody, MA).

"We have a very tough non-conference schedule starting with our season-opener at home against Keene State," says Dias who begins his ninth season with a 105-55-4 record (65.2%).

"We also play Springfield, Connecticut College, and Plymouth State, so we will be tested early. I'm hoping we can integrate the new players into our system quickly."

LUDLOW NATIVE MIKE DIAS NAMED ASSISTANT WOMEN'S SOCCER COACH

Former Vermont star join father Ron on Golden Bears' sideline

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (July 11, 2002) — Western New England College women's soccer coach Ron Dias announced Thursday (July 11) that his son Mike Dias will serve as assistant coach of the Golden Bears this fall.

Mike Dias, a native of Springfield, is a 2002 graduate of the University of Vermont where he was a four-year starter at a sweeper position. He was twice a first team America East Conference selection and a National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Regional First Team All-America. Dias also was named the MVP of the America East Tournament.

Dias was an All-State, All-New England, and All-Western Massachusetts performer at Cathedral High School.

A current member of the Western Massachusetts Pioneers, Dias previously played for the Boston Bulldogs and the Connecticut Wolves. He also has worked at several summer camps.

"I am extremely pleased that Mike has accepted this position," said Ron Dias. "Western New England College is a great place to start a career and Mike will be a great addition to our program."

WNEC posted a 14-8-1 record last year for its seventh consecutive winning season. The Golden Bears captured the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament title and participated in their second NCAA Division III Championship in three years.

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM LOOKS FOR RETURN TRIP TO NCAA TOURNAMENT

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The goals are simple for the Western New England College women's soccer team this season — repeat as Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament champions and participate in the NCAA Division III Championship.

The Golden Bears finished with a 14-8-1 record for their seventh consecutive winning season.

Coach Ron Dias lost five players from that talented squad, including midfielder Kristen Ogulewicz (Springfield, MA) who is the school's all-time leader in assists (67) and NCAA single season leader (30).

The Golden Bears, however, have seven returning All-Conference players led by senior co-captains Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) and Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA).

Burke, a forward, was the 2001 GNAC Player-of-the-Year after leading the conference with 55 points (23 goals, 9 assists). She is the program's second all-time leading scorer with 175 points (73 goals, 29 assists). Bailey contributed 12 points (4 goals, 4 assists) from a midfield position.

Burke and Bailey earned spots on the All-GNAC along with junior back Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT) and sophomore keeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) who compiled an impressive 0.69 goals-against-average in her rookie season.

Also returning are sophomore All-GNAC Second Team performers — forward Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT) and back Amy Camerota (Westfield, MA).

Loper was third on the team in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 8 assists) while Bertram was fourth with 21 points (9 goals, 3 assists).

Dias also has three top juniors in backs Melissa Stone (South Deerfield, MA) and Jessica Hulsey (Springfield, MA) who returns following an injury, along with midfielder Kelly Quinn (East Longmeadow, MA). Sophomore forwards Rachel Brown (Embden, ME) and Jillian Boutin (N. Sidney, ME) are solid players.

Western New England College has a promising freshmen class led by local products Rene Guyer (Granby, MA), Laura Stelatto (Granby, MA), Lindsey Estock (Southwick, MA), Alysa Lastowski (Holyoke, MA), and Erinne Goodwin (East Longmeadow, MA).

Other first-year players to watch are Melissa Fleshman (Troy, NY), Samantha Matney (Kettle Falls, WA), Lauren Demaio (Vernon, CT), and Rene Robichaud (Peabody, MA).

"We have a very tough non-conference schedule starting with our season-opener at home against Keene State," says Dias who begins his ninth season with a 106-55-2 record (65.2%).

"We also play Springfield, Connecticut College, and Plymouth State, so we will be tested early. I'm hoping we can integrate the new players into our system quickly," Dias noted.

LIZ BURKE AND JACQUIE BAILEY
NAMED TO VERIZON DISTRICT 1 ALL-ACADEMIC TEAM

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Jan. 10, 2002) — Western New England College senior midfielder Liz Burke (Holyoke, MA) and junior midfielder Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) were named Thursday to the Verizon District 1 All-Academic College Division Women's Soccer Team.

Burke, a team co-captain, has a 3.87 cumulative grade-point-average in psychology. Baily has a 3.84 GPA in the same major.

MOLLY BURKE NAMED GNAC PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR; EIGHT GOLDEN BEARS MAKE ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM

Ron Dias selected top GNAC Coach

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Nov. 7, 2001) — Western New England College junior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) was honored Wednesday as the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (Player-of-the-Year.)

Burke led the conference in scoring with 55 points (23 goals, 9 assists) this past season. She is second on the school's all-time scoring list with 175 points (73 goals, 29 assists).

Eight members of the Golden Bears squad made the All-GNAC Team.

First team honors went to Burke, junior midfielder Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA), sophomore back Elaina Johnson (Sandgate, VT), and freshman goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA).

Bailey scored 12 points (4 goals, 4 assists) while Vital led the conference with a 0.69 goals-against-average in 17 contests (14 starts). She also had five shutouts and an 88.9 save percentage.

Second-team accolades went to senior midfielder Kristen Ogulewicz (Springfield, MA), and a trio of freshmen, forwards Erin Bertram (Old Lyme, CT) and Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT), and back Amy Camerota (Westfield, MA).

Ogulewicz was second on the team in scoring with 25 points (5 goals, 15 assists). She ended her career fourth on the school's all-time scoring list with 141 points (37 goals, school record 67 assists).

Loper was third on the team in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists) while Bertram was fourth with 21 points (9 goals, 3 assists).

Johnson and Camerota ranked among the top defensive players in the conference.

Ron Dias of Western New England College was voted the GNAC Coach-of-the-Year. Dias gained his 100th career victory against Emmanuel College on October 3. He has a 106-55-4 record (65.5 winning percentage) in eight seasons.

Dias directed the Golden Bears to a 14-8-1 record this fall for the squad's seventh consecutive winning season. The Golden Bears also captured both the GNAC regular season and tournament titles, and participated in their second NCAA Division III Tournament in three years.

WNEC DROPS 3-0 DECISION TO NO. 1 THE COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY IN NCAA DIVISION III CHAMPIONSHIP

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (Nov. 3, 2001) — Western New England College dropped a 3-0 decision to top-ranked The College of New Jersey in a second round game of the 2001 NCAA Division III Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament.

Junior forward Gia Rosamilia scored two goals and freshman midfielder Lauren DiStefano added one as the Lions (the defending national champions) improved their record to 18-0. TCNJ has outscored its opponents by a 64-0 margin this fall.

WNEC trailed only 1-0 at halftime after Rosamilia scored in the 10th minute. The match remained close until the Lions scored twice in a seven-minute span to seal the victory.

Rosamilia hit the back of the net in the 64th minute followed by DiStefano's goal in the 75th minute.

New Jersey had 26 shots to none for WNEC.

Junior goalkeeper Joyce Blake (Dalton, Mass.) played a solid match making 10 saves for the Golden Bears who finished with a 14-8-1 record for their seventh straight winning season.

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND TO MEET NO. 1 THE COLLEGE OF NEW JERSEY IN NCAA DIVISION III CHAMPIONSHIP

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Oct. 30, 2001) — Of the 45 teams that were invited to the NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Tournament, the one squad that Western New England College coach Ron Dias thought his Golden Bears wouldn't meet in the first round that begins Wednesday (Oct. 31) with 13 matches at campus sites was top-ranked The College of New Jersey.

He was right!

Instead, WNEC will play TCNJ in a second round contest starting at 1:30 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 3) in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The match-up occurred when the NCAA Tournament Committee kept six teams in the New England Region, but shipped the Golden Bears to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Tournament.

Western New England, the College of New Jersey, and host Muhlenberg College all received first round byes to advance to the field of 32. Muhlenberg will meet the winner of Wednesday's Elizabethtown College-College of Notre Dame (Md.) game at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Varsity Field.

WNEC (14-7-1) earned its second trip to the national tournament in three years after defeating top-seeded Johnson & Wales University, 2-1, last Saturday (Oct. 27) in the championship match of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament in Warwick, Rhode Island. Western New England was seeded second in the GNAC Tournament after losing at Johnson & Wales, 3-2, during the regular season.

"Not only are we excited about winning our conference title, but weÕre psyched to be returning to the NCAA Division III Tournament because that was one of our goals this season," said Dias.

WNEC will face its toughest test of the year against the undefeated Lions (17-0) who have outscored their opponents by an incredible 61-0 margin. The College of New Jersey also is the defending NCAA Division III Tournament champion.

"Playing New Jersey is a formidable task," admitted Dias. "However, we saw them at the Mayor's Cup Tournament in Oneonta, New York at the beginning of the season and obviously were quite impressed by their team. New Jersey has a first-class national program and one of our goals is to try and reach that level, at least regionally.

"New Jersey coach Joe Russo is a legend in the soccer world. It's like playing against North Carolina and their renowned coach Anson Dorrance. "This will be our sixth match against a nationally-ranked opponent this season and our players are looking forward to the challenge. I was disappointed by our play at the beginning of the season, but we played well down the stretch, especially in the conference tournament."

Western New England College junior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) leads the Golden Bears in scoring with 55 points (23 goals, 9 assists). She is second on the school's all-time scoring list with 175 points (73 goals, 29 assists). Burke was the MVP of the GNAC Championship match and the conference Player-of-the-Week three times.

Another key performer is senior midfielder Kristen Ogulewicz (Springfield, MA) who is second in scoring with 25 points (5 goals, 15 assists). She is fourth on the school's all-time scoring list with 141 points (37 goals, school record 67 assists).

Three freshmen who made significant contributions were forwards Jana Loper (Glastonbury, CT), Erin Bertram (Old Lyme, CT), and goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA).

Loper is third on the team in scoring with 22 points (8 goals, 6 assists) while Bertram is fourth with 21 points (9 goals, 3 assists). Vital has a 0.69 goals-against-average with five shutouts in 17 matches (14 starts).

New Jersey captured its third straight New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) title last Friday night (Oct. 26) with a 2-0 win over Rowan University. TCNJ has won 32 consecutive regular and post-season matches.

The top scorers for the Lions are junior forward Gia Rosamilia who has 30 points (11 goals, 8 assists) and senior forward Denise Buckley who has 28 points (13 goals, 2 assists). All-America senior goalkeeper Victoria Nusse has been asked to make only 29 saves in 1,353 minutes this season. She was the 2000 National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Division III Player-of-the-Year.

MOLLY BURKE & JESSICA VITAL GAIN GNAC SOCCER HONORS

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Oct. 30, 2001) — Western New England College junior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) was honored Monday (Oct. 29) for the third time this season as the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Women's Soccer Player-of-the-Week.

Burkecompiled nine points (4 goals, 1 assist) in three GNAC Tournament contests and was selected the MVP of the GNAC Tournament championship match. Burke had the first goal in a 2-1 win over Johnson & Wales University in the championship final that advanced to the Golden Bears to the NCAA Division III Tournament for the second time in three years. She leads the GNAC in scoring with 55 points (23 goals, 9 assists).

Freshman goalkeeper Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) was selected the GNAC Women's Soccer Rookie-of-the-Week for the second time this fall. She allowed only one goal with 10 saves in three matches as WNEC captured the GNAC Tournament title to advance to the NCAA Division III Tournament for the second time in three years. Vital is the top-ranked goalie in the GNAC with a 0.69 goals-against-average and five shutouts in 17 matches (14 starts).

WNEC WINS GNAC TOURNAMENT TITLE WITH 2-1 WIN OVER TOP-SEEDED JOHNSON & WALES

Golden Bears advance to NCAA Division III Tournament for second time in three years

WARWICK, R.I. (Oct. 27, 2001) — Junior midfielder Jacquie Bailey (Easthampton, MA) scored the game-winning goal in the 59th minute as second-seeded Western New England College upset top-seeded Johnson & Wales University in the championship match of the 2001 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Tournament played Saturday at the Community College of Rhode Island.

The Golden Bears (14-7-1) will now advance to the NCAA Division III Championship for the second time in three years. Pairings will be posted Monday and first round competition will begin on Wednesday, October 31, at campus sites.

Junior forward Molly Burke (Westfield, MA) gave WNEC a 1-0 lead with an unassisted goal in the 18th minute. It was the 23rd goal of the season for Burke who was named the championship game MVP.

Bailey then hit the back of the net with an assist from senior midfielder Kristen Ogulewicz (Springfield, MA Ð Cathedral High School) to make the score 2-0 with 31 minutes remaining in the match.

Johnson & Wales, the defending GNAC Tournament champion, cut the margin to one when Lucia Sanchez scored on a penalty kick two minutes later following a hand ball in the box.

"We controlled play for most of the game and our defense played well," said WNEC coach Ron Dias. "WeÕre looking forward to playing in the NCAA Tournament wherever we go."

Dias also noted the fine play of freshman defender Amy Camerota (Westfield, MA) who marked the Wildcats' leading scorer Patrice Merendina holding her scoreless.

WNEC freshman goalie Jessica Vital (Ludlow, MA) made three saves.

Johnson & Wales (13-8) defeated WNEC by a 3-2 margin in last year's GNAC Tournament championship match and by the same score 10 days ago in Providence, Rhode Island.