On Feb. 25, women’s lacrosse bested Niagara University by a score of 24-7 and set three single-game school records with 24 goals, 17 assists and 41 points. The Red thoroughly demonstrated its “red brick” symbol of the team — one that reflects the hard work and strive for excellence the team wants to uphold everyday.
The Purple Eagles scored the first goal, but Cornell answered nearly 30 seconds later with a goal from senior midfielder Caitlin Slaminko. The team posted another seven goals before Niagara was able to respond.
The Red’s strong offensive showing was led by senior attacker Kylie Gelabert and junior attacker Ella Wilmot. Combined, the two recorded 10 goals and seven assists. Gelabert netted a whopping seven goals on seven attempted shots, a shooting percentage of 1.000.
“This team really showcased the depth of our team,” said head coach Jenny Graap ’86. “Both our offensive and defensive units showed out and this was a really special game for our freshman and it demonstrated our depth, connection and chemistry.”
Gelabert and Wilmot both hail from the greater Rochester, New York area. They played against each other during the high school season but were members of the same club team. The pair have known each other since the second grade.
“[Our chemistry] has been a long time coming,” Gelabert said. “We have known each other for a while, we've been competitors and teammates so it kind of feels different being at this level and being teammates so I am excited to see what this season holds.”
Slaminko netted a hat trick and also recorded five assists. Across the team, 38 shots were taken. In total, 18 different players scored at least one point and 13 of them recorded a goal.
“A lot of our goals were assisted and we take pride in those goals,” Slaminko said. “I am very proud of our offense, defense and the team as a whole.”
While the offense’s domination was the game’s highlight, the defense put on an impressive showing, holding Niagara to just seven goals. Each of the goals Niagara scored were unassisted.
Cornell’s defense also disturbed the Purple Eagles offensive unit, forcing nine Niagara turnovers. Niagara was limited to a total of 16 shots the entire game.
Looking towards the rest of the season, Wilmot stated that the team is looking to improve every single day, practice and game.
“Iron sharpens iron, so we just go out to every practice and game by approaching it with the mindset that we will be better,” Wilmot said.
Although the Red celebrated this historic victory, it is focused on its key game at Penn State on March 1. Cornell looks to snap a seven-game losing streak against the Lions that has been active since 2017.
“Penn State is our next challenge,” Graap said. “It is our chance to take a step forward as a team and it is our next moment to attack.”
Cornell is set to take on Penn State at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Coverage of the match will be available on ESPN+.
