Report: Seven Women's Lax Players Transfer to Stony Brook from Adelphi

Seven women's lacrosse players from Adelphi University have followed new head coach Joe Spallina to Stony Brook University, according to a report by Lacrosse Magazine and athletic department officials at both schools.

Lacrosse Magazine reported that the transfers include several decorated players, including IWLCA Division II goalie of the year Frankie Caridi, a sophomore; attacker of the year Claire Petersen, a senior; and midfielder of the year Demmianne Cook, a junior. Rising junior Emily Mercier will also come to Stony Brook. Also transferring to Stony Brook are three Long Island freshmen, Comsewogue High School's Michelle Rubino, Calhoun's Ava Fitzgerald and Rocky Point's Julie Nolan.

"We're going to try to put as competitive of a team out there as we can. We're going to change the culture immediately," Spallina told Lacrosse Magazine. "...We think we're going to have the pieces to put a competitive team on the field immediately."

At Adelphi, Spallina compiled a 73-2 record, including a 20-0 season in 2011, and three straight Division II national championships. Stony Brook begins its fall season Aug. 29, a season which will include games against UMass and Syracuse and tournaments at Iona, Navy and George Mason.

As for Adelphi, athletic director Robert Hartwell told Patch that new coach Rob Grella has been busy recruiting to fill the gaps left by the transfers.

"Quite simply, the fact is that we did lose some very fine athletes," Hartwell said. "...There is no way to tell whether we’ll be as strong as we were last year, but I guarantee you we will put on the field a very, very talented team that will defend the national championship."

He described the large number of transfers as an unusual situation.

"I think there were some unusual circumstances," Hartwell said. "...We’re wishing not only Joey [Spallina] but also our kids a great season at Stony Brook."

For the full story from Lacrosse Magazine, click here.