LACROSSE SENIORS REFLECT ON INAUGURAL SEASON

April 8, 2011

When asked to describe what it has meant to be part of the very first team in the history of Emmanuel College women's lacrosse, senior Megan Clary summed up the year succinctly and with a very level mindset.

"Everything has to start somewhere," she said.

Although the team has battled through a difficult campaign (something every first year program must undertake), the team's three seniors have approached each game with a sense of excitement and energy.

Along with Clary, classmates Kristina Marik and Megan Harrington have brought their own personalities and abilities to the field this year. All three have had success with a different athletic team at Emmanuel (Clary played volleyball, Marik was a member of the soccer team and Harrington competed in tennis) and each has made adjustments and strong efforts to consistently do what is best for the Saints.

"This season has definitely been a struggle," said Marik, "but I've loved being a part of this team. I could not have imagined being at Emmanuel for my last semester of college without being involved in the athletic program and doing something I find so enjoyable."

Clary and Marik had played lacrosse competitively for a brief time in high school, but this is Harrington's first season playing the game. Still, she is not letting her lack of experience slow her down and was even voted a tri-captain for the team before the start of the season.

"I had never played lacrosse prior to this year but I thought that a first year program would be a great opportunity to explore a new sport," she said. "From the experiences that I have had so far, I am glad that I joined the team and could be a part of Emmanuel College athletic history."

"Being part of the lacrosse team has allowed me to try something new under the support of my coaches and teammates."

The three seniors have certainly been looked towards for guidance and assistance this year, but all are quick to pass along credit to their supporting cast of teammates and the hard work and dedication that each one has put forth this season.

"I'm learning from the underclassmen on the team and usually it's the other way around," said Clary. "It's great to know we all have a passion for something and come together and work well as a team."

Harrington echoed her classmate's words.

"I can honestly say that not one player or coach has given up on the team which proves that we are both mentally and physically strong," she said. "Every game, we go in with positive attitudes and compete against every team we play in hopes of a win."

Despite a rough road this season, there is no doubt that the team has a bright future ahead. The key will be for the underclassmen to learn from the leadership set forth by the 2011 senior class and utilize that to make each year better than the one before.

"This program has so much potential for the future," noted Marik. "I hope in the future more people know about the program and are interested in playing."

Although the three are only able to suit up for the team for one season, Clary brought a positive thought to mind when considering her year with the program.

"It's like we're leaving behind a legacy," she said. "We're pioneers for Emmanuel and it's nice to persevere and make a statement for the women's lacrosse team."

There is no question that these three women have made an impact on their team and their school that many will remember when recalling the very first season in the history of Emmanuel women's lacrosse.