The Nittany Lions’ defense continues to battle through injuries this season, all without costing the team wins.
The latest injury came on Oct. 12 at Nebraska, when sophomore Kori Chapic was hit in the left eye.
The team has had to adjust to the loss of Chapic as she has been a staple in the defense this season, starting all 14 games prior to her injury.
“She’s a key player in our back line. She’s a strong physical player and a great defender,” sophomore defender Whitney Church said.
The team, however, has found ways to continue its success, giving up only three goals in Chapic’s four-game absence.
“We’ve got a deep bench and we have Corey Persson, who came in and is going to do a great job for us,” Church said.
A freshman, Persson has received merits from both her coach and teammates for stepping in and playing such a big role.
“Corey’s versatility is so vital to our team. She’s been outstanding,” Chapic said.
Chapic said she has noticed Persson becoming more comfortable being stationed on the back line.
“As a freshman, in any position, you have to get used to the team and the atmosphere. I think she has really honed in on her role,” Chapic said.
Chapic was seen by a Nebraska doctor after the game and was told to have the eye examined if she experienced further symptoms.
Chapic awoke the next morning to find a black line through her vision.
At first it was thought to be a retina detachment, a serious injury which can cause vision loss or blurred shapes. However, after being seen by several optometrists the severity of the diagnosis was reduced and determined a bruised vitreous, a transparent substance that gives the eye its shape and form.
Chapic met with doctors on Tuesday and is expected to return to action Nov. 2.
The women’s team is coming off a 1-1 tie to Michigan, which crowned the Lions as Big Ten champions for the 15th consecutive season.
