Hempstead, NY - The Hofstra women's lacrosse team was among those "also considered" in the Nike / US Lacrosse Division I Women's Preseason Top 20, released recently. 

The Pride, which won four games in the shortened 2020 season, returns all but one goal scored last season as they look to climb the lacrosse ladder in 2021. 

Five different players who tallied at least 10 points return this season, led by All-American Alyssa Parrella. Parrella, who had 31 points (27 G, 4 A) is joined in that group by Katie Whelan (12 G, 6 A), Alexa Mattera (16 G, 1 A), Grace Langella (12 G, 2 A), and Taylor Mennella (10 G). 

On the defensive end, Darcie Smith continues to anchor the Pride in several areas. She had team-highs of 46 draw controls and 10 caused turnovers, while ranking second with 11 ground balls. Mattera was first with 13 ground balls, while Anna Kaufmann and Mattera each added eight caused turnovers. 

Jess Smith returns to lead the Pride in net after making 76 saves a season ago and notching a .475 save percentage.