Sunday at 1 p.m., the field hockey team will open their 2008-’09 season on the road against Providence. Although the Friars topped the Bulldogs in last year’s opener by a score of 2-1, Yale hopes to herald in a strong season.

For 10 months, the Elis have been working to develop their skills both at home and abroad in Argentina. The team is led by captain and forward Ali Rotondo ’09. The Bulldogs’ top scorer last season was Ashley McCauley ’10, who ranked first in the Ivy League and second in the NCAA in points per game. Goalie Charlotte Goins ’10 led the Ancient Eight with 148 saves last year.

For the Bulldogs, the trip to Providence College will be a warm-up for upcoming Ancient Eight play and a shot at the Ivy League Championship. The Bulldogs will face other non-conference opponents, including Holy Cross and Final Four champion University of Connecticut, before beginning league play against Harvard on Sept. 20.