ST. LOUIS – The Missouri Baptist University women's lacrosse team is set to open postseason play this week, earning a buy-in in the Heart of America Athletic Conference Semifinals, where the Spartans will face Ottawa University after securing the No. 2 seed.
MBU will enter the semifinals at 10-5 overall, 5-1 in conference. Their regular-season performance positioned the Spartans among the top teams in the conference, allowing them to advance directly into the semifinal round. The extra time off provides an opportunity for preparation and recovery as MBU looks to make a strong push toward a conference title.
Throughout the season, the Spartans have relied on Delaney Pechnick for offensive production and Haley Schnefke for disciplined defensive play. Offensively, Pehcnick has contributed 71 points this season, 58 of them goals. Skyler Morrissey has also been a key outlet for MBU's offense. With an .841 shots on goal percentage, Morrissey continues to be an offensive threat to the opponent.
In the midfield, transition play has been a key strength, helping Missouri Baptist control tempo and capitalize in unsettled situations. Defensively, the Spartans have emphasized communication and structure, limiting opponents' chances while forcing turnovers in critical stretches. In goal, Rachel Livak has held down the crease with a .472 save percentage.
Ottawa University enters the semifinal as a familiar conference opponent, bringing a well-rounded unit that has proven capable on both ends of the field. The Braves enter the semifinals off a win against Saint Ambrose University, where they dominated 22-13.
Brianna Valadao led their surge with nine goals and two assists, totaling 11 points. Curstin Brown and Rilee Barnett followed, adding four goals apiece. Goaltender Saniya Watt made ten saves with 13 goals against.
In the regular season, the Braves were 5-8 overall, 4-2 in conference. Barnett has led their offense, totaling 48 points on the season. Valadao has made an impact this season with a .750 shots on goal percentage and 32 goals.
Game Details
• Missouri Baptist vs. Ottawa University
• Heart of America Athletic Conference Semifinals
• Thursday, April 30 at 10 a.m.
• Benedictine College, Atchison, Kan.
