Janey Sypeck earned Liberty League Defensive Performer of the Week honors after leading the William Smith College lacrosse team to a 10-5 win over Washington and Lee University on Saturday at Urick Stadium, as the Herons improved to 15-2 and surged in the national rankings. Sypeck anchored a dominant defensive effort that held one of the nation’s top offenses to a season-low output.
Sypeck recorded a game-high four caused turnovers, including three in the opening quarter as William Smith kept Washington and Lee scoreless early. She added three ground balls while helping limit the Generals, who entered averaging more than 15 goals per game, to just five goals and 15 shots. It marked the seventh time this season Sypeck has registered at least four caused turnovers, and she now leads the team with 40 caused turnovers and 37 ground balls.
Grace Rund also earned recognition, landing on the Liberty League honor roll after contributing across the field. She scored three goals, including the game-winner, while adding a game-high five draw controls and a caused turnover. Rund leads the Herons with 94 draw controls and is tied for the team lead with 32 goals.
Following the win, William Smith climbed to No. 5 in the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association poll and No. 6 in the USA Lacrosse Magazine rankings, while also moving up in the NCAA Power Index.
William Smith returns to action Friday, May 1, hosting a Liberty League semifinal at Urick Stadium at 4 p.m. against the winner of Tuesday’s matchup between Rochester and St. Lawrence.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].