BREVARD, N.C. – The Brevard women's lacrosse team begins its 2018 season on Saturday when it treks to Mars Hill for an 11 a.m. contest with the Lions, marking the season opener for both teams.

Brevard competed in an exhibition on Saturday, Feb. 3, falling in a close contest to Converse, 12-9. The Tornados were led by Victoria Hayes, who scored five goals on nine shots, and Macaiah Vacchiano who came away with two goals on seven attempts.

Hayes was also active on defense for the Tornados, grabbing four ground balls. She tied with Kelly Kearnan for the team lead in ground balls, as Kearnan also scooped up four. Teammate Shelby Arsenault also had a solid defensive performance, making 10 saves on 22 shots.

This season marks head coach Kristin Rosato's third season at the helm of the women's lacrosse team, and the first season coaching for assistant coach Tempestt Smith, a former Brevard player.

Returning from last year's squad is senior Nina Siu, the team's leader in goals (37), assists (41) and points (78) during the 2017 campaign. The Tornados also return senior and second-leading scorer from a season ago in Victoria Hayes, who finished last year with 33 goals.

For more information on the Tornado women's lacrosse team check out www.bctornados.com.