February 25, 1999

Villanova, Pa. - As far as season openers go, the Wildcats would like to forget the past. Over the last eight seasons, Villanova has only began the year with a victory once, beating Michigan State 11-2, back in 1992. With a revived program and a new attitude, the Cats head into the 1999 season with some much needed optimism as they face-off against the University of Denver on Sunday, February 28.

"We are excited to get the season going," said head coach Randy Marks. "Denver is a difficult team to prepare for because they have a new coach and a big group of transfers. This should be a good test to start the year."

Heading into his 17th season, head coach Randy Marks is looking forward to the first face-off of the 1999 season. Returning seven of their top eight scores from 98, Villanova is looking to build upon their 7-7 mark from a year ago. At attack, the Wildcats return three upperclassmen in Chris Corr, Tom Hourican and Andrew Bogle, who combined for 36 points last season. Adding depth to the front line will be juniors Chuck Casano and Brendan Groarke, while freshmen Pete Franchetti, Justin Marks and Andrew Driscoll will look to break into the line-up.

Anchored by senior Andy D'Amico, the Wildcat midfield, will feature their leading returning scorer, junior Eric Dauer, who tallied 24 goals last season. Alongside D'Amico and Dauer will be Justin Loonie, John McTigue and Christopher Larson, who add depth and experience to the heart of the Cats. On the defensive side, senior Evan Clancy and Brian O'Hagan are the backbone of the Wildcat, while freshmen Chris Bowman and Andrew Quinn will be given opportunities to prove themselves.

"Our strength is our experience, we have a group of upperclassmen that have had the opportunity to start for two or three years now," said Marks.

After the opener versus Denver, the Wildcats will travel to Penn State on March 5 and return home to face Notre Dame of March 13.