The Chippewas took third place in the spring league this year, two places better than last year’s spring team with all the talented seniors. Trottier sees that as a sign of good things to come.

“That’s a confidence builder because people weren’t even playing in their regular spots, since we were mixing it up,” Trottier said. “That was very encouraging because we have such depth on this team, with our talented freshmen and sophomores.”

Head Coach Cristy Freese likes the depth that her team has this upcoming season.

“Our depth is very valuable. We were able to avoid some injuries last year and were also able to push the starters because we had so much talent behind them,” Freese said. “I don’t see this as a rebuilding year either. The offseason spring league helped us replace those seniors with either seniors or juniors.”

Trottier has assured herself the offense has to do more for CMU to stay at the top of the conference.

“From what I saw in the spring, I think the offense has to score more. I think we need to do that to overcompensate for any defensive errors that could be made with mostly girls back on defense with little game experience,” she said.

While Trottier enjoyed being called a champion, she wanted an NCAA Tournament bid just as bad.

“We were MAC champs and that was great, but ultimately we wanted to win the MAC Tournament too,” Trottier said. “I know for me personally, and the other seniors especially, it has just given us that much more determination and drive.”

The co-captain said CMU has to prove last year wasn’t a fluke by going out and accomplishing the team goals. Those goals are to win the regular season title and the MAC Tournament and advance to the NCAA Tournament.

“I know how good we are and we’re coming off the championship, which will carry us. We have such a good team,” she said.

Trottier has had to adjust to the American style of field hockey, the grade system and the constant change in the exchange rate of currency.

“Back home, the game is not as physical as it is here. I’d say that there is more finesse to it, and the rules are different too,” she said. “Freshman year I hated it. I felt like I was drowning. But now I love it.”

Trottier said she loves it here and is excited for the upcoming season to start. She is looking forward to it, even though the team lost those five seniors, including goalkeeper Janel Spero.

“When Janel was in there you just got so used to how good she was; you didn’t even think about it,” Trottier said. “It’s going to be tough to replace her, especially since we lost the core of our defense too. It’s one of those wait and see things.”

Freese isn’t too worried about the youth coming in and stepping up.

“Certainly we’re going to be younger,” she said. “But our young girls are extremely talented and they will get the job done.”

Trottier is poised to have a breakout season this year. She scored four goals and had three assists last season, with 11 shots on goal. Every year Trottier has improved individually, and her senior season is looking bright.

“She’s such a hard worker and she’s so talented,” Freese said. “The conference doesn’t know her and they’re going to get to know her this year.”

Trottier isn’t too concerned with her stats; she just wants another ring.

“I don’t even know how many goals I scored last season. I’m just a team player. I’m not in it for myself; I just want to be remembered as a great leader.”