Interview with Plymouth Women's Lacrosse Head Coach, Kristin Blanchette

1. When I was talking to the captains, Cait Swanson said that you guys were going to surprise other teams this year. While I assume you agree with this, what do you think leads her to believe this?

I think we believe this because the make up of our team is entirely different than last year. The majority of our big contributors this year will be our freshmen so we will be a hard team to scout. Additionally, our team competitiveness and talent level has risen dramatically this year because of very talented personnel that we brought in in the freshmen class. We are ready to shed our past reputations and create a new one that we've so rightfully earned and deserved.

2. How far do you see this team potentially going this year?

I think we have the potential to go far this year. We will be a very young team, and there are pros and cons to that. The freshmen don't understand the pressures that come with big games; they just go out there and play. However, we will lack the experience needed to close out big games or in tight situations. So we'll see. I am very optimistic, though.

3. Do you find it to be a lot more challenging only having two true home games this year?

Yes, obviously it is an enormous challenge to only have 2 home games or not be out playing on a field for the majority of your season. However, I think it speaks to the character of our team on how we can still perform, execute, and win even with the disadvantage of traveling and being on someone elses turf. We don't use it as an excuse; we just rise to the challenge.

4. Looking ahead to Dallas for spring break, do you have anything unique planned for the team?

We are very excited for our spring break trip to Dallas. We have two big games down there and we are looking forward to having two practices out on a field. It will be a good opportunity for us to be outside and work on things that we can't do practicing in the field house at PSU. Additionally, we have really fun surprise trips for the team in Dallas. I think it is really important for them to not only play in games, but to experience the culture and all the great things Texas has to offer. It will be a really special trip for these girls and probably a once and a lifetime experience.

5. How is this year's team different from last year's team?

This team could not be more different than last years team. The team dynamic first and foremost is extremely different. We have outstanding, loyal, and really dedicated upperclassmen who have been through every growing pain a program could have in the last two rebuilding years. They all possess really strong leadership qualities and know what we need to do in order to be successful. They have totally bought to in what me and my staff are trying to do and have done an outstanding job of leading our large freshmen class this year. The freshmen are just extremely talented and are big time lacrosse players who are ready to contribute right away. They have brought PSU lacrosse to new heights, and we are very excited to be playing at a much higher level then in years past. The two combinations of the leadership laden upperclassmen with the talented young freshmen have been a very successful mix. They just all really love each other and truly share a team first mentality.

6. Who do you see as the most improved player from last year's squad compared to this year's team?

My Junior Captain Kristen Guest has improved tremendously from the last few years. She was a walk-on my first year as head coach. She had very limited lacrosse experience, but in just two short years, she has become our top defender and one of the most natural and strong leaders I've ever had the privilege of coaching. She is really admired by her teammates for how hard she works and how determined she is to be successful. She is a really amazing kid.

7. Be honest; if you had ten shots on goalier Lorin Field, how many times would you score?

I love this question. Field-Z is one of the strongest goalies I have been around in my lacrosse career. I have played at the highest level of the game with the US team and at the World Cup level, and I can honestly say that she is in the mix with those top goaltenders that I've played with. It is very difficult to find a goalie that has amazing game instinct, mental toughness, and fundamental soundness. Usually, you're lucky if you get 2 out of the 3. Field-Z has all three and it makes our team that much better because she's in net. She is a very special and gifted player. Now, if her and I were to get into a shooting competition, I don't feel confident that I would win....well, at least every time. I'll just keep it at that. :)

8. Do you have anything else you want to tell the people of Plymouth?

Yes. Be ready for another championship at PSU! Congrats to the men's hockey team!!!