The Hope College women's lacrosse team kicked off its 2025 season in dominant fashion on Friday night, securing a 14-9 victory at Oberlin College (Ohio).

Fueled by a fast start and a balanced offensive attack, the Flying Dutch set the tone early and never looked back.

Hope wasted no time establishing control, outscoring Oberlin 6-2 in the first quarter behind strong play from senior Kerrigan Brown (DeWitt, Michigan / DeWitt HS) and junior Julia Brown (Grand Rapids, Michigan / Forest Hills Central), who each found the back of the net twice in the opening period.

Kerrigan Brown and Julia Brown finished four goals apiece against Oberlin (2-2).

Junior Sydney LaPrairie (Rochester, Michigan / Stoney Creek) and junior Caleigh Randall (Lansing, Michigan / DeWitt) also contributed key goals to build the early lead. LaPrairie collected three goals.

The Flying Dutch continued their aggressive play in the second quarter, stretching their lead to 10-4 at halftime, their largest advantage of the game. 

Despite a push from Oberlin in the second half, Hope's defense held strong, limiting its opponent to just five goals over the final two quarters.

The Flying Dutch finished the game with a 31-15 shot advantage, consistently pressuring Oberlin's defense. 

Junior Samantha Smith (Westfield, Indiana / Westfield) made two key saves in net, while Hope's defensive unit caused multiple turnovers to disrupt Oberlin's rhythm.

The Orange and Blue also controlled possession, winning 14 draw controls to Oberlin's 10, and held a 28-23 edge in ground balls.

Hope is back on the field on Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. at The College of Wooster.