Makayla Kelly '23 Recruiting Profile

I’ve been playing lacrosse since first grade. When I was that young, playing was another way to keep me active and learn the fundamentals of the sport and the concept of being part of a team. As I got older, however, lacrosse became much more to me than that.

I’ve always been an athlete. My parents were both accomplished athletes. Field hockey, soccer, basketball, softball, football – each an opportunity to grow in more ways than one. They both talked about their athletic experience as being so much more than having a winning season. They spoke of passion, dedication, cohesion, selflessness, competition, fortitude – challenging themselves and their teammates to deepen their level of play both individually and collectively.

In 3rd grade, I found I wanted to play lacrosse all of the time. I joined a year-round club team, attended skills-training classes, pushed myself regardless of if I was playing rec, school or club lacrosse. As a freshman in high school, I was playing varsity, but unfortunately our season was cut short due to the Corona Virus Pandemic.

Playing lacrosse has shown me that I’m a leader. That I’m strong – both physically and mentally. That I’m determined, intense, fearless. I have a need to play hard, learn fully, better myself every day. I’ve discovered I can do all this while also fostering cohesiveness, camaraderie, motivation, and encouragement. My coaches say I’m considered a leader of my peers by my peers. I take pride in that responsibility.