Despite piles of snow still lining the playing fields, the Thoroughbred spring squads have returned from Spring Break ready to kick off their season and bring heat of their own to the cool early spring of Saratoga.

There may be no group as optimistic as the women’s lacrosse team, who after recording a losing record in 2007, return with eight veterans and 10 new players and a renewed determination to once again be competitive in the Liberty League.

“The positive energy off the field, and on the field and at every practice and game is amazing,” said head coach Abby Burbank, “The players work well together and are pushing each other.”

The Thoroughbreds began the season 1-2 in Florida over spring break before returning home to record a come-from-behind victory over Hartwick College, 17-15. Trailing the Hawks 15-11 with just 10 minutes remaining, Skidmore scored six unanswered goals to overtake the home team in an exciting finish.

“It was truly a great team effort, the players on the sideline directed and cheered and the players on the field made it happen,” said Burbank.

After graduating several standout scorers in recent years, Skidmore looks to build a solid foundation of young players focused on balanced play and team unity.

Burbank points to athleticism and versatility as team strengths, adding, “We play solid defense on both ends of the field and any of our players can go to goal.”

The Thoroughbreds open Liberty League play this weekend at home hosting St. Lawrence University today at 4 p.m. (March 28) and Clarkson University Saturday at 2 p.m. at Wachenheim Field.

The remaining spring sports teams at Skidmore are also making a statement early this spring.

The men’s lacrosse team has opened up the season 5-1 and also begins Liberty League play this weekend hosting Hamilton College Saturday at 5 p.m.

In an exciting start to the season, the Thoroughbreds have been red hot on offense scoring in double digits in all five victories while allowing six goals or less in four of these games.

The Thoroughbred baseball team opens up the 2008 season as returning Liberty League champions ending last season on a high note at the NCAA Regional tournament in Auburn.

Skidmore returns a large core of players this season and started the year 5-5 in Florida. Strong pitching and defense and smart overall play will once again form a solid foundation for the Thoroughbreds as they look to recapture the Liberty League title.

For the women’s softball team, this spring brings hope and anticipation as they stride to establish themselves in a tough league rich with historical national powerhouses.

The Thoroughbreds have steadily improved over the last several years and return this season with strong veteran leadership and experience. Although their Spring Break record may not have reached expectations, their level of play has undoubtedly improved and they remain optimistic in their ability to work hard to continue to build the program.

Another group looking strong to start the 2008 season is the women’s tennis team, who begin this year with a national ranking and impressive 6-3 record against a host of ranked opponents.

The Thoroughbreds finished the 2007 season advancing to the second round of the NCAA Championships, and are poised to return to the tournament with six returning players and four newcomers. Despite being fairly young, Skidmore has good depth and displays strong determination and toughness in every match.

The men’s tennis, golf, and crew teams will also compete this spring for the Thoroughbreds. Be sure to visit www.skidmore.edu/athletics for game schedules and up-to-date results throughout the spring.