The women’s lacrosse team got off to a winning start in their second season as a varsity team, earning a 16-6 victory over visiting Niagara University at the Mount Vernon Athletic Complex on Saturday.

The Colonials (1-0) never allowed the Purple Eagles to get into the game, leading the entire match. Goals from sophomores Heidi Mayer and Jenny Heisler put GW up 2-0 within the first seven minutes.

Niagara scored only one goal in the first half, trailing 5-1 at the half.

Freshman Lauren Bower scored four goals in her collegiate debut.

“I was happy with how I played and with how the team played,” Bower said. “I think it was good to come out with a big win like this.”

Bower admitted it wasn’t the goals that spurred her on but feeling as if she is part of the team.

“Knowing that my teammates have confidence in me, it means a lot to me,” Bower said. “Coming into a new program, all of the upperclassmen have been so helpful and supportive.”

Sophomore Meghan McDonough tallied four goals and two assists while Heisler also added four goals. Sophomores Casey Atkins and Rachel Abdulla made four and three saves respectively in goal for the Colonials.

“It was great to start the season off with a bang,” Heisler said. “Going into the season it’s important to get off on the right foot.”