With NCAA tournament time just around the corner, it's time to take a look at some of the Philly area's top women's players of 2008. The women had some big games this season, with maybe the biggest being Penn's revenge against the defending champs from Northwestern, and the five players listed here certainly made their marks on these games and will look to get their squads into the postseason and possibly being the ones hoisting the trophy for National Champions. So, without any more delay, here are the top five players in local women's college lax for 2008.
1. Sarah Waxman - Goalie (Penn, Senior, Washington, D.C.)
Waxman, with her NCAA leading 5.96 goals against average, has the 2008 Ivy League champs on the verge of a second straight trip to the NCAA Division I Final Four, as well as a #1 ranking after the Victory over Northwestern. With her solid play, an excellent group in front of her, and the knowledge that can they can not only hang with, but beat a team like Northwestern, Waxman and the Quakers could very possibly bring home the 2008 championship.
2. Stephanie Kienle - Attack (West Chester, Senior, West Chester, PA)
Kienle has been, along with Junior Jackie Baker, one of the leaders of the Golden Rams as they head back to the NCAA Division II playoffs after clinching their fifth straight PSAC Championship against rival Lock Haven. With 134 points in West Chester's 19 games this season, Kienle hopes to lead the Golden Rams to their fifth straight NCAA title appearance and the championship that has been eluding them.
3. Jessica Bill - Attack (Drexel, Senior, Baldwinsville, N.Y.)
Bill set career highs in goals (39) and points (46) in leading the Dragons to their fifth straight season of at least 10 wins. Bill was also named, along with teammate Katie Bradley, to the CAA's second team all-conference squad.
4. Chelsea Rosiek - Midfield (Temple, Sophomore, Blue Bell, PA)
On a senior laden team, Rosiek gives Temple a lot to look forward to in the next two years. After a frosh season with only eight points in 11 games, Rosiek bloomed this season finishing the regular season fourth on the Owls with 26 goals and 42 points. Her and junior Brittney Hoffmann will be counted on in 2009 to lead the Owls.
5. Alison Jaeger - Midfield (College of New Jersey, Freshman, Hampton, NJ)
Jaeger has had an impressive first year for the Lions, tallying 41 goals and 56 points. Jaeger will be looked upon, along with Seniors Toni-Anne Cavallo and Karen Doane, to lead TCNJ back to the National Championship after their quarterfinal loss in 2007.
Our next feature will take a look at the local schools (Men's and Women's teams) in the NCAA tournament, set to begin next weekend.
