The women’s lacrosse team has already surpassed several of last year’s team records, thanks largely to the impressive offensive performances of Gretchen Richter ’18. The Bison now stand at 7-3 after a decisive victory against first-year program West Point on March 26. Richter, a 5’7’’ midfielder, recorded a career-high six goals, two assists, nine draw controls, two ground balls, and two caused turnovers in the match, earning the Corvias Patriot League Midfielder of the Week title.

After a difficult loss to Boston University in the team’s first Patriot League game of the season on March 19, Richter’s offensive surge helped secure an important win for the Orange and Blue against the Black Knights.

“I think this win provides our team with more confidence going into the rest of PL play, which will hopefully fuel the momentum for the next few games that really count for a hopeful postseason,” Richter said.

The Bison went up 9-0 in the first 12 minutes of their match against West Point, as Richter’s ability to win the draw controls provided the team’s offense with great positioning and momentum. Richter has been a pivotal member of the Orange and Blue squad this season, and she is continuing to build on her tremendous first-year campaign last spring.

The Bronxville, N.Y. native made an immediate impact in the Patriot League last season, earning Second Team All-Patriot League honors after starting in all 17 games. However, Richter returned for her sophomore campaign with determination and a commitment to achieve even more in her second season as a Bison.

“I think just having a year under my belt has allowed me to build even stronger relationships with my teammates and trust myself to make the smartest decisions at every particular moment,” Richter said.

This smart decision-making has paid off so far. Richter currently boasts 30 points and 40 draw control wins on the season, and she continues to aim high as the team delves into the thick of Patriot League play. Her improved ability to dismiss minor mistakes and focus on enjoying the game has translated into her personal success this year, yet she recognizes that her individual statistics are only relevant if they are reflected in the team’s success.

“It’s been an ongoing goal to make it to the PL tournament this season. I think in order to accomplish that, it takes our entire team continuing to put in the time and love for the support each day and playing the way we did this weekend against Army,” Richter said.

She attributes much of her success to that of her teammates, as she emphasizes the impactful role that the team’s upperclassmen have had on her as a lacrosse player.

“The best advice I’ve gotten from an upperclassman is stop focusing on the little mistakes because being upset over them may show you love the game, but it doesn’t prove why you should be the one out playing it,” Richter said.

Since her first year as a member of the Orange and Blue squad, Richter has proven why she should be out on the field. As a dual-athlete in high school for lacrosse and field hockey, she developed the pace and agility needed to compete at the Division I level. She chose to pursue lacrosse in college, and after stepping on campus for the first time, Richter said she fell in love with the University. Two years later, she is still equally as passionate about the University and the team that she has grown to be a crucial part of.

She will remain a pivotal member of the team in her two years left to wear orange and blue, as Richter has her goals set high and is determined to leave her mark on both the program and the league.

2016 Statistics:

20 Goals

10 Assists

.392 Shot Percentage

13 Ground Balls

40 Draw Controls

14 Caused Turnovers

Hometown: Bronxville, N.Y.

High School: Bronxville