KINGSTON, R.I. — Rhode Island women's lacrosse head coach Jenna Slowey has announced the addition of two transfers to the 2026-27 roster. Midfielder Emerson Pekarcik joins the Rams after two seasons at High Point, while attacker Libby Staples arrives following a four-year career at UMBC. "We are excited to welcome both Libby and Emerson to our Rhody family," said Slowey. "Not only do they bring strong experience on the field, but they also embody the traits which we are looking to continue to develop within our program with their hard work, passion, & resiliency."

Pekarcik comes to Kingston after appearing in 18 games over two seasons with the Panthers, including 13 appearances as a sophomore in 2026. The Nantucket, Mass. native recorded a career-high five draw controls against Campbell on Feb. 14 and registered her first career caused turnover versus Winthrop on March 25. She also saw action in five games as a freshman. A graduate of Nantucket High School, Pekarcik was a three-sport athlete in lacrosse, hockey and cross country and competed for Revolution Lacrosse at the club level.

Staples brings extensive collegiate experience after four seasons at UMBC. The fifth-year attacker started all 15 games she played in during the 2026 season, setting career highs with 18 goals and 16 assists while adding 28 draw controls. Over the last two seasons, she totaled 33 goals and 36 assists, highlighted by a 2025 campaign in which she recorded 35 points on 15 goals and 20 assists. A native of York, Pennsylvania, Staples was a standout midfielder and attacker at York Catholic High School, earning YAIAA Co-Midfielder of the Year honors in 2021 and First Team All-YAIAA recognition in 2022. She also helped lead the Fighting Irish to the program's first PIAA District 3 championship and played club lacrosse for the York Invaders.