by Jennifer Coots
staff writer
It’s that time again. It’s time for a preseason preview of one of Cabrini’s most enthusiastic and dedicated sports teams, the women’s lacrosse team.
“I have a really good feeling about this team,” coach Jackie Neary said.
There is reason for Neary’s feelings, considering the team is packed with a mixture of 22 experienced and talented players with one thing is common, the passion to continue the glorious streak of conquering the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference, which they have proudly owned for the past three consecutive years.
Despite the loss of numerous senior key players, Neary, who has been coaching lacrosse since the sport first took hold at Cabrini six years ago, feels confident in her current crew.
“We have a lot of great players and a tremendous amount of talent,” Neary said. “We have a group of strong freshman who have great backgrounds leaving high school.”
New freshman players include Maureen McQuade, Kelli Romano, Melissa Modesti and Colleen Connor.
“I am really excited about this season,” McQuade said. “I never had a chance to win a championship.”
Strong leadership and encouragement come from senior captains, which include Angela Grassa, Christy Malone and Monica Paolucci.
“We are definitely going to work hard to keep the women’s lacrosse tradition of winning the PAC championship going,” Grassa said.
With the upcoming trip to St. Petersburg, Fla. over spring break for preseason lacrosse camp, the team is enthused to engage themselves in a weeklong intense training and workout program, focusing not only on improving their field techniques, but also to strengthen the already tight bond that the players possess.
“It’s like my second family,” McQuade said.
The trip to Florida will also prove stimulating since the players will be able to scrimmage and practice on an actual outdoor field, as opposed to the Dixon Center gym, where the ladies practice everyday.
Much of the team’s motivation and encouragement derives from Neary.
“Coach Neary is a phenomenal coach,” Grassa said. “Her energy and enthusiasm for lacrosse is absorbed by us everyday. She motivates us and makes us want to win.”
The first home game against Catholic University, will be held on March 16 in the lower athletic field.
