ERIE, Pa.- Seniors Alexandra Keirn, Lindsay Marafioti, and sophomore Anna LeGrett have been named Mercyhurst captains, as announced by head coach Cecil C. Pilson last week. The trio has made their mark on the program, both on and off the field, as they'll look to lead a young squad that features 14 freshmen.
 
They follow in the footsteps of captains Kimberly Masterton and Maggie Yackel, who both graduated following exceptional careers, both including three-time All-Region Honors and two-time All-American Honors.
 
"We are excited to announce these three student-athletes as captains for the 2011-2012 season," said Pilson. "Keirn, LeGrett, and Marafioti have proved themselves on and off the field this fall." 
 
"These young women have shown the leadership potential needed for this position as well as earned the respect and confidence of their teammates and coaching staff,” said Pilson.
 
Keirn has been one of the most prolific scorers in program history, scoring 112 goals in her first three seasons. She needs two goals to tie Jennifer Meyers for second on the career goals list with 114. In 2010, Keirn compiled 104 points, including a team-high 57 assists, on her way to being named Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) / U.S. Lacrosse First Team All-American.
 
"Keirn is a senior who will be the quarterback of our attack this season," said Pilson. "She is not only a dangerous finisher but she also leads the program in career assists."
 
LeGrett earns the distinction of captain as only a sophomore following an outstanding freshman campaign as well as an amazing 2011 fall ball campaign. She made 17 starts last year, recording 30 goals and nine assists.
 
"LeGrett is a role model of hard work and passion for competition," said Pilson. "She is not only talented midfielder on the lacrosse field but she leads the team in the classroom."
 
Marafioti started 18 games last season, playing stellar defense while scoring a goal and totaling 20 groundballs.
 
"Marafioti is a senior who will be the anchor of our defensive unit this season," said Pilson. "She is an tenacious defender that leads the team through determination and hard work."
 
The Lakers return eight seniors from last year's 13-6 squad.