One weapon the Jeffs have in their arsenal is the experience of the group. After losing only one starter to graduation, this year's Jeffs will not have to adjust to radically different playing styles or rosters.
Last year, Franklin Perry '04 made his name known in the NESCAC, grabbing the coveted Rookie of the Year award. Perry led the Jeffs-along with all the NESCAC rookies-with eight goals and 17 points on the year.
Perry will look to mold his Amherst career after that of his teammate, scoring threat Dave Michener '02. Michener, who notched six goals on the season, provided a dangerous offensive drive that earned him Second Team All-NESCAC honors for the second straight year.
Tri-captain Ryan Goodband '02 also made his mark from the backfield during last year's campaign, notching two goals and a First Team All-NESCAC designation to go along with his First Team NSCAA/Adidas All New England Region pick.
To round out the Jeff scoring leaders, Piercarlo Valdesolo '03 contributed a goal and three assists.
Bill Orum '02 patrolled the net for the squad last year, posting a 1.07 goals against average. The already-significant impact of the senior class will be emphasized by the continued play of Tri-captains Casey Ryan '02 and Adrian Talbott '02. Although Talbott will begin the season on the sidelines due to an injury, his off-the-field leadership will continue to affect the team's performance.
The Jeffs will kick off their season at Colby College on Sept. 9.