Claire Petersen's abilities were unmatched in Division II, where the All-American attack helped Adelphi win two of its three consecutive national titles. But how would those skills translate at Division I Stony Brook? The answer came quickly. Petersen stepped up and stood out Sunday, setting a team record for assists in a game with seven and tying for most points with nine as Stony Brook (3-0) defeated visiting Central Connecticut, 18-5.
"I was not aware of that," Petersen said of her achievement. "This is the first game that I'm playing in, so it's really exciting to be out here with the whole team, as a full team."
Petersen, a junior transfer, was held out of the first two games for an undisclosed infraction. "Coach had a certain level of rules and expectations I didn't follow," Petersen said of Joe Spallina, who also coached her at Adelphi. "But it's water under the bridge at this point and we're just moving on from here."
Spallina was not at all surprised at Petersen's performance, saying, "I'm sure it's a record she will wind up breaking later on. She's a dynamic player on any level. Claire's the kind of player who is going to make the people around her better. And with the kind of talent we have around here, she's in a position where she's bringing her game to a different level."
Petersen's point total tied Kaitlin Leggio (2008) and Carlee Buck, who did it three times in the 2005 season. Peterson had 125 assists last season at Adelphi.
Petersen assisted on Janine Hillier's goal 13 seconds into the game and had four assists in the first half as the Seawolves took a 10-1 lead over the Blue Devils (0-1). Adelphi transfer Demmianne Cook had four goals and freshman Amber Kupres had three.
"We're just so excited to have her back," Hillier said of Petersen. "She helps our offense come together. It's awesome having someone behind the crease to create plays like that and create opportunities for other teammates."
