Olivet College’s Guarnaccia and Merrell named All-MIAA in women’s lacrosse

OLIVET, Mich. – Olivet College sophomores Taylor Guarnaccia (East Lansing/Haslett) and Geri Merrell (Battle Creek/Lakeview) have been named 2013 All-Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) second-team in women's lacrosse. All-league honors are based on a player's statistics during the six-game conference schedule.

Merrell led the Comets with 15 goals, 38 shots and 30 shots on-goal in MIAA play. She also scooped up 13 ground balls and won 14 draw controls. Guarnaccia was second in scoring with 10 goals and one assist for 11 points. She also recorded 25 total shots, placing 20 on-goal and topped the team with 16 ground balls. For the entire 13-game schedule, Merrell had 30 points (29 goals and one assist), 68 shots, 56 shots on-goal, 23 ground balls and 34 draw controls. Guarnaccia finished with 26 points (25 goals and one assist), 52 shots, 38 shots on-goal and 34 ground balls. 

"Geri and Taylor both deserve this award," said first-year Head Coach Mary Ann Meltzer. "Geri was the go to person on our attack and she managed to score despite us playing down each game. Taylor was instrumental on both our attacking and defensive ends of the field. Her presence on the field was important to the success of our team.

"To be recognized by the other coaches in our league is a great honor. They are also part of history as being named to the inaugural second-team All-MIAA."