Oberlin, Ohio – The Oberlin College men's lacrosse team enters a new era in 2011 as first-year Head Coach Topher Grossman takes over the program.

After back-to-back one-win seasons, the Yeomen turned things around in 2010 by finishing 5-8 overall, but the progress is expected to grow even further from there.

Senior midfielder Rob Bond is the backbone of the team and as team captain his play will go a long way in determining the Yeomen's success this spring.

The Yeomen's front-line attack is very poised and polished and should be ready for a breakout season. Junior Dylan Holmes, who was named NCAC Sportsman of the Year a season ago, led the Yeomen with 30 goals – 11 of which came on man-up opportunities.

Sophomore standout Thomas Hake, who earned NCAC Honorable-Mention accolades, was arguably the most impressive freshman in the NCAC last season as he led the team with 42 points by scoring 28 times to go along with a team-leading 14 assists. Classmate Connor Jackson completes what could be one of the most dynamic scoring trios in the league. The Berkeley, California, native found the back of the cage 17 times while starting all 13 games in his rookie campaign. Rookie Matthew Rogers will also bolster the attack.

Joining Bond in the midfield is junior Daniel Fineman and freshmen Mickey Fiorillo and Matt Owen. Face-off specialist Eli Clark-Davis will also be a key factor for the Yeomen. An All-NCAC Honorable-Mention selection in 2010, Clark-Davis proved he could win in the circle by coming out victorious on 81-of-153 (52.9%) attempts. Freshman Matt Owen will also be a viable option at midfield.

The Yeomen defense could be a strong point as they are the most experienced unit on the team. The junior tandem of Thomas Cool, Matt Fineman, James Kriz and Ted Pallis spearhead the backline. Coach Grossman will also work in a talented group of newcomers that includes Daniel Melzer, Elliot Rollins, Kirby Livingston, Noel Myer and Paul Paschke.

With Jon Weisburst having to call it a career due to multiple injuries, the goalkeeping duties fall solely upon the shoulders of junior Glen Gerbush. The junior saw time in just seven games last season, making two starts. In 215 minutes of action he made 55 saves and had a goals against average of 9.75.

The Yeomen are slated to start their season at home on March 5 against Aurora, but Mother Nature may have a say in that so be sure to check goyeo.com for the latest information. Following the March 5 contest, the Yeomen embark on a six-game road trip before they finally return home for an April 5 meeting with Denison. During that road swing, Oberlin will kickoff conference play at Ohio Wesleyan on March 23.