Lisa Patrone Selected to Play in Women's National Championships
May 24 | Field Hockey
College Park, Md. (May 24, 2012) - Rutgers field hockey sophomore midfielder Lisa Patrone (Sewell, N.J.) has been selected to play with the New Jersey squad at the 2012 Women's National Championship on June 1-8 in College Park, Md. Junior midfielder Christie Lonsky (Dingmans Ferry, Pa.) and sophomore forward Gia Nappi (Fairfield, N.J.) were also selected to the New Jersey High Performance training squad.
"I couldn't be more proud of Lisa on her tremendous achievement of being selected to the three-time defending national championship team, the New Jersey High Performance Squad," said head coach Meredith Long. "This experience will afford her the opportunity to compete at an elite level alongside USA National Team players in the run up to the 2012 London Olympic Games. We are all very proud of Lisa and are looking forward to being there to cheer her on."
An All-BIG EAST Second Team selection this season, Patrone joins the nation's top players at the Field Hockey and Lacrosse Complex on the University of Maryland campus for a spot on the USA Field Hockey's national teams, including the 2012 Olympic Team.
Athletes will compete for the title of regional champions - as New Jersey has won three-consecutive titles - and vie for a spot on the National Squad roster and the opportunity to represent the U.S. on the international stage. The Women's National Championship serves as the only selection opportunity to the National and Development Squads.
Patrone amassed 16 starts in 18 appearances in her second season with the Scarlet Knights. The Sewell, N.J., native was third on the team in assists with four. Patrone was recognized on the BIG EAST Weekly Honor Roll on Oct. 17 for her efforts against Providence and Lafayette. She recorded her first goal of the season to help solidify a 3-1 victory versus the Friars and added an assist against the Leopards.
Lonsky joined the Scarlet Knights this season, but was forced to sit out due to NCAA transfer rules. The junior spent two seasons at Providence College prior to RU. In her second season with the Friars, Lonsky started in 14 of 17 games, tallying five points on two goals, including the game-winner against California.
Nappi paced the team with 17 points (six goals, five assists) through 18 games this season. In her first two seasons with the Scarlet Knights, Nappi has a combined 11 goals and ten assists - ranking highest among any RU returner next season.
The eight-day showcase event features eight competitive regions playing in five matches, including the finals on June 8. Athletes will be assessed to continue on towards participation with the National Team, including the Olympic Games.
Admission is free and open to the public. The competition schedule and further information can be found on usafieldhockey.com.
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