Freshmen Playing Big Roles for Lions

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]http://conjsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Harrison-Head-Shot.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]By Harrison Duhr

@duhrnation[/author_info] [/author]

 

EWING – When The College of New Jersey beat Bowdoin 2-0 in the Division III National Championship last season, multiple high school seniors took serious notice. Fortunately for Taylor Barrett and Elizabeth Morrison, the Lions had interest in them as well.

Elizabeth Morrison
Elizabeth Morrison

It’s never easy to repeat as champions in any sport, but it’s especially difficult when new members are expected to make an early difference. However, both Barrett and Morrison not only feel at home at TCNJ, but also are making serious contributions to a now 13-1 Lions team.

“Being able to come to TCNJ after they just won a title has been a tremendous honor and opportunity,” said Morrison. “It motivates you to want to win a title of your own.”

Clearly Morrison has dedication, considering she’s part of a very small minority on campus that’s out of state. Morrison, straight out of Stonington, Connecticut, is one of only five on the Lions not from New Jersey.

“People have told me that TCNJ has a majority in-state population,” said Morrison. “But considering how dominant this team was last year, I highly doubt I’ll be the last out of state member to join this team.”

Speaking of dominant, Morrison has recently taken serious control of the Lions offense. Dating back to September 29th, Morrison has scored seven times, which include three games of two goals and a game winner against Rowan.

“I’ve been feeling really good the last month or so,” said Morrison. “I’m starting to really see where I fit in our game plan and I’m happy to execute anyway possible.”

Meanwhile, Barrett is also putting together a nice rookie campaign for the Lions. Through October

Taylor Barrett
Taylor Barrett

20th, she’s racked up five assists along with six goals, including most recently a late game-tying goal against Rowan on Tuesday.

“It’s definitely been an exciting season so far,” said Barrett. “It’s nice to see Elizabeth and I are able to help this team win being the new kids on the block.”

Born and raised in Neshanic, New Jersey, Barrett has had the desire to play for the Lions for a while now.

“You look at the success this team has had over the years and it’s truly amazing,” said Barrett. “With the 11 national championships and (Sharon) Pfluger leading the way, what’s not to like?”

As the playoffs inch closer, it will be very intriguing to see how Barrett and Morrison handle the big stage. Frankly, at the rate they are going, it seems like they are more than ready.