The Holy Cross women’s lacrosse team is preparing for its Senior Day game against Loyola (Md.) on April 18. As the event approaches, senior members of the team have shared their reflections on their time at Mount St. James.
Senior Racheli Levy-Smith said her best memories include lifelong friendships, traveling to new places, and unforgettable moments on the field. Kate Burns highlighted beating UMass during her sophomore year and playing on Fitton Field as standout experiences. Other seniors echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing team traditions, inside jokes, and victories that marked their collegiate careers.
When asked about the mark they hope to leave on the program, Phoebe Matuch said she wants to be remembered for fostering a culture of fun and support among teammates. Lily Glance mentioned being a loyal teammate who brings positive energy. Levy-Smith reflected: “I hope that I have left something not just for myself but to my teammates and coaches… For my teammates, I hope to have left them the belief that you can do anything you set your mind to… And to myself, I hope that I’m leaving this program giving absolutely everything that I had to offer to the best of my ability.” Tory Rider added she hopes she is leaving “the program better than when I came.”
The seniors also discussed life lessons learned through participation in college athletics. Burns pointed out “the importance of celebrating the little things,” while Mackenzie Creagh stressed making “the most of every moment with your teammates.” Levy-Smith said: “I’ve learned to cherish every single moment and not take it for granted… it’s a privilege to be here every day.” Matuch noted learning resilience and hard work from being part of a close-knit team.
Asked what they will miss most after graduation, many cited daily interactions with teammates as well as specific traditions such as bus rides or early morning practices. Glance summarized: “I’ll miss the little things most,” while Rider simply stated: “My teammates.” Levy-Smith concluded: “What I’ll miss the most is being on this team and playing lacrosse with these girls… It’s been such a blessing every day and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my lacrosse career at Holy Cross.”
As Senior Day approaches, these reflections highlight how collegiate sports can foster strong bonds among athletes while teaching valuable lessons both on and off the field.
