UTICA, NY - The Empire 8 has announced its Athletes of the Week, with Utica women's lacrosse sophomore Alyssa Specchio (Chenango Forks, NY/Chenango Forks) being named among honorees. Following a strong outing in the team's first game of the season, Specchio claimed the conference's Offensive Player of the Week award. Utica women's lacrosse will look to build momentum as they enter a stretch of three road games, beginning with a matchup against Plattsburgh State this coming Sunday.

Specchio and the Pioneers played host to SUNY New Paltz in the team's season and home opener on Saturday. Despite a 17-7 victory by the visiting Hawks, the sophomore attacker netted five of Utica's seven goals. She did so in just seven total shot attempts, scoring each of her shots on target. Additionally, she led the Pioneers with three of the team's seven total draw controls, the only Utica player with more than one.

The Pioneers will return to action next Sunday, March 1st, against Plattsburgh State. The game, set for 1:00 pm, will take place at the Plattsburgh Soccer/Lacrosse Complex. Utica next returns to their home field in a March 17th matchup with the University of Rochester.