Weston, Mass.-Returning with the second ranked player in the NCAA in saves, Andrew LaMacchia (Lynn, Mass.), and the Pride open the fall sports season Thursday against Emerson College.

Emerson was 7-10-2 overall in 2008. On paper Emerson appears to have a statistical adva

In 2008 Emerson had 145 shots on goal in 285 attempts. The Lions made 51 percent of its shots on goal. LaMacchia saved 74 percent of shots taken on the net in 2008. Defense will be an important aspect of the Pride's season in 2009.

The Lions as a team tallied 35 goals on the season, on 285 shots. Emerson's Casey Shane returns to the team for his senior campaign, as he was the Lion's leading scorer in 2008 with 11 goals, four of those were game-winning.

The fewer attempts opponents have on taking shots at the net, the closer and more likely Regis will be to snag some wins. Wade Thongsythavong also returns, and is one of the team's toughest defenders. Although second in shots on goal, he led the team last year with three.

With Thongsythavong Shawn McDonough, and Ricky Guyette returning to the midfield and defensive positions, opposing forwards will have a tough time getting quality shots.

Keep in mind that there is unseen talent stepping to the pitch this year as well. Rumor has it that speed has been added to the forward positions, and with LaMacchia's punting ability Regis forwards should be able to score in a limited number of touches.

Josh Fidalgo will most likely return to the forward position this year as well. Fidalgo has size to his advantage, which can intimidate less physical defenders if he uses any of his abilities to his advantage.

Mark your calendars for Sept. 19 when the Pride kickoff the first home game at the new outdoor athletic complex. Regis will face The Commonwealth Coast Conference opponent Salve Regina at 3:00 pm.

ntage, but with a core group of players returning to the Pride, and some new talent in tow, Regis College might match-up well.