Janey Sypeck was named Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association Defensive Player of the Week 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 on the season. The junior defender anchored a dominant performance that limited one of the nation’s top offenses.
Sypeck recorded four caused turnovers and three ground balls, setting the tone early with three takeaways in the first quarter as William Smith held Washington and Lee scoreless and limited it to just two shots in the opening 15 minutes. The Herons’ defense kept the Generals, who entered averaging more than 15 goals per game, to a season-low five goals and 15 total shots.
Sypeck has been a consistent force throughout the season, starting all 15 games while leading the team with 40 caused turnovers and 37 ground balls. She has recorded four or more caused turnovers in seven games and ranks among the top players in the Liberty League in caused turnovers per game. The weekly honor marks her first IWLCA recognition this season after earning multiple conference awards.
William Smith’s defense has been among the nation’s best, entering postseason play ranked 20th in scoring defense while allowing double-digit goals in just three games this year.
William Smith returns to action Friday, May 1, hosting a Liberty League semifinal at Urick Stadium at 4 p.m. against the winner of Rochester and St. Lawrence.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].