BIDDEFORD, Maine -- The University of New England women's lacrosse team gets underway with its 2012 season on February 27, with a contest at the Big Blue Turf against Thomas.

The Nor'easters' first seven dates are with non-conference opponents, included in which are Husson, Franklin Pierce, and UMass Dartmouth -- all new additions to the schedule. UNE faces the Ravens and Corsairs during Spring Break just outside of Orlando, Fla.

Big Blue has three NCAA Championship participants from a year ago on the schedule, highlighted by reigning national runner-up Bowdoin. The list also includes Colby and defending CCC Champion Endicott.

With changes in the composition of the conference, down from 12 competing institutions to 8, the CCC slate now consists of seven matches, beginning with Curry at home on March 24. Two first-round games will kick-off the CCC tournament on April 28, setting up the final four teams left to compete for the crown.

Click HERE to view the 2012 UNE Women's Lacrosse Schedule.