WAUKESHA, Wis. – The Carroll University women's lacrosse team has clinched the no. 3 seed in the 2022 CCIW Women's Lacrosse Conference Tournament. This marks the Pioneers' fourth straight appearance since the program began in 2015. Head coach Michael Hodge says the success comes from year round work, not just during the games: "We've learned a lot about competing every day – not just on game day," says Hodge. "The athletes have learned they need to be prepared in the fall, to be ready to work to find success on the field in the spring."
 
The Pioneers finished the regular season with a 9-6 record, including a perfect 5-0 record at Schneider Stadium, to finish undefeated at the venue for the second time in the last three seasons. Carroll averaged 12.87 goals per game, and 18.13 points per game, all third best marks in the CCIW this year through 15 games played. Carroll boasted conference best number of ground balls per game and caused turnovers per game as well. "From each game, we grow stronger in communicating with one another which has helped us read each other's movements," says sophomore defender Ashlyn Phaneuf. The Pioneer defense has allowed just 9.8 goals per game this season. "Each of us will step up to do whatever it takes to get the ball back to our offense."
 
Carroll will take the draw against Carthage College on Wednesday, May 4 at 6 PM in Kenosha. The Pios are 2-1 in their last three games against the Firebirds, after suffering a tough loss by only one goal back on April 27 on the road. In the last matchup, the Pioneers' comeback fell short as the Firebirds scored the game winner with just over a minute left in regulation. The Pioneers have never won at Art Keller Field on the campus of Carthage College. "It's going to take a special effort all 12 people on the field at any given moment," says Hodge on the game plan for upsetting the Firebirds. "We have to take care of the ball and value our possessions."
 
Tickets for the 2022 CCIW Women's Lacrosse Championship will be available for purchase on site. Entry for adults is $10, Seniors, Students, and Children ages 6-14 are $5, and current CCIW students with a valid institution ID card are admitted free of charge. Live results and video will be available at gopios.com/wlax starting at 5:45 PM.