Lehigh University Athletics

Seniors reflect on careers in advance of Senior Day Sunday
4/19/2018 11:47:00 AM | Women's Lacrosse, Features
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Lehigh women's lacrosse senior class features plenty of student-athletes who make an impact, on and off the field, both offensively and defensively. This senior class has played an integral role in the Lehigh defense finishing first in the Patriot League in scoring defense, both in 2016 and 2017. This class has been multiple All-League honors, an All-Region honoree and All-ECAC All-Star, along with student-athletes who have eclipsed 100 career goals, points, groundballs, draw controls and caused turnovers. More important than individual statistics, they have made the Patriot League Tournament each and every season while they're vying for a third straight top-four seed. In the classroom, this group owns an average cumulative grade point average of nearly 3.5 as they have excelled in every aspect of their student-athlete experience.
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In advance of Sunday's Senior Day vs. Bucknell (1 p.m. opening draw), Lehighsports.com caught up with the six seniors to reflect upon their careers.
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#1 Kierstyn Voiro – Midfield/Defense – Moorestown, N.J. – Finance
A senior captain, Voiro has contributed from day one as a Mountain Hawk. Voiro primarily played attack as a freshman, finishing with 21 points (11 goals, 10 assists), which was fifth on the team. She moved to the midfield/defense as a sophomore and has played a key role in Lehigh's defense finishing first in the Patriot League in both 2016 and 2017. As a sophomore, Voiro recorded 32 groundballs, 16 draw controls and 13 caused turnovers. Then as a junior, she was named first team All-Patriot League and second team All-ECAC, posting 32 groundballs and 27 caused turnovers, which was tied for seventh in the league. Among her standout games came in last year's home opener vs. Wagner when she recorded a goal, assist, two groundballs a draw control and career-high six caused turnovers to earn Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week. Voiro has continued to fill up the stat sheet as a senior, currently owning 26 groundballs, 14 caused turnovers and 10 draw controls. Voiro has started all 68 games of her career so far. She owns a stellar 3.51 cumulative GPA as a finance major. She has been named to the Dean's List on multiple occasions for a semester GPA over 3.6. Voiro was also named the team's Scholar-Athlete award winner last year.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KV:Â There are so many amazing moments that come to mind when I read this question, but my favorite lacrosse memory is during my sophomore year when we beat Boston University. The game was really exciting and we ended up winning by one goal in the final seconds to upset them on their home field. Losing to them twice my freshman year, especially the second loss in the quarterfinals that ended our season, made the win that much better.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KV:Â I would like to be remembered as someone who loved her team, loved the AUX, and someone who would do anything for the people she cared about. I hope that my work ethic, competitiveness and supportive attitude has had a positive impact on my teammates throughout my time as a Lehigh lacrosse player.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KV:Â My relationship with my fellow seniors is unlike anything else. Living with the same people and spending every day with each other has made us so close. I can't even imagine not being surrounded by these people every day after we graduate. We've been through so much together and I know I can count on them for anything. I truly believe my Lehigh experience would not be the same without my best friends. Â
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KV:Â It's crazy to think that the day I thought would never come is actually here. I started playing lacrosse in the third grade and to think that something I've worked towards since I was young will all come to end very soon is hard to swallow. Playing lacrosse at the Division I level has been a commitment, but at the same time, the most rewarding experience. I'm so happy I had the opportunity to play the sport that I love every day and make life-long friendships.
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KV: The thing I will miss most about Lehigh women's lacrosse is spending every day with my teammates and best friends. Being on this team has given me the opportunity to make so many great friends and memories that I will never forget. It is something I'll always cherish. Every single person on this team, the coaches and past teams have been so important to my four years at Lehigh and who I've become as a person. I'm grateful for everyone and everything this program has done for me. Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KV: After graduating, I plan to enjoy summer and travel with friends. I have accepted a position at JP Morgan Chase in their finance division and will start full-time in July.
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#3 Haley Wentzel – Attack – Gilbertsville, Pa. – Journalism
Wentzel has been an immediate contributor since her freshman season when she posted 10 points (nine goals, one assist) in 15 games. As a sophomore, Wentzel finished fourth on the Mountain Hawks with 31 points (20 goals, 11 assists) before following with 39 points (34 goals, five assists) as a junior. Last season, Wentzel had 10 multi-goal games and five hat tricks, highlighted by a career-high five goals and six points in a Patriot League win at American. Wentzel has continued to contribute as a senior, currently tied for third on the Mountain Hawks with 29 points (24 goals, five assists), highlighted by a career-high tying five goals last time out vs. Lafayette. She also had hat tricks against St. Bonaventure and at Holy Cross while posting four points in Lehigh's convincing Patriot League opening win at Boston University. Wentzel eclipsed the 100-point plateau during Lehigh's home victory over Colgate.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
HW: Although not my favorite memory, I feel as though this memory captures what this team is like. During the bus ride after our exciting last-second win at Columbia, our bus broke down right by the Lehigh sign about seven minutes from the Varsity House. Too far to walk, but too close to get another bus; we were trapped. Standing on the side of the road with all of our bags waiting for our friends to pick us up, we literally could not stop laughing. It made me think how lucky I was to be with a group of girls who made a crappy situation after a big win so much fun.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
HW:Â I would like to be remembered as an authentic teammate who put relationships on and off the field as my highest priority. I genuinely looked forward to spending time playing the sport I love with a group of people I love. If I could leave a legacy, it would the passion and belief I had in the people surrounding me.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
HW:Â We've been with each other through every up and down the past four years have thrown at us. Being fortunate enough to play lacrosse together was just a bonus to the relationships we have off the field. My classmates have each individually impacted who I am and it makes me so happy that the past four years were simply just a great start to our lifelong friendships.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
HW:Â For as long as I can remember, I've worn the number three on a lacrosse field. Lacrosse has been such a major part of my life for so long that I will absolutely feel something missing for a little. However, physically stepping on the field has been a small piece of the larger reward lacrosse has given me. I appreciate every team and teammate I've been a part of and look forward to embracing the person this sport and this Lehigh lacrosse team has made me.
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
HW:Â The tailgates on game day! After a win, or a loss, walking out to all of our families supporting us is the greatest feeling. This team has given me a lot of things, but most importantly, it has given us all this connection with the Lehigh lacrosse family as a whole. And obviously, the food.
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What are your postgraduate plans?
HW: I'm planning to work in the marketing and media field of an advertising agency in Philly.
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#9 Alexis King – Defense – Berwyn, Pa. – Journalism
A senior captain, King has emerged as one of Lehigh's best defenders over the past two seasons, starting all 33 games since the beginning of 2017. Last season, King recorded 24 groundballs and 22 caused turnovers (third on the Mountain Hawks) as part of a defense which led the Patriot League in allowing just 9.67 goals per game. This year, King leads the team in caused turnovers (20) while her 35 groundballs stand second on the Mountain Hawks. King has recorded multiple caused turnovers in seven games this year, highlighting by a seven groundball, two caused turnover effort at Fairfield. She followed with five groundballs and two caused turnovers at Boston University to earn Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week honors. On Wednesday against Lafayette, King recorded her first-career point via a second-half assist. In the classroom, King has been named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll, garnering the Faculty Athletics Council Award on multiple occasions for semester GPAs over 3.2.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
AK: The most vivid memory that comes to my mind is actually my run test during my sophomore year. I had some trouble passing it back in the day, and needed to rerun it the next morning. I was planning on waking up at 6 a.m. with the coaches and just banging it out on the field on my own. To my surprise, my entire house (Kierstyn, Haley, Kelly, and Nicolette) and Jules D'Orazio had their cleats on and were standing on the field that morning in the freezing cold ready to run it with me. The group literally pushed me through the entire test and helped me pass it with a second to spare. I had never felt so supported and appreciative in my entire life.Â
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
AK:Â If I can leave Lehigh lacrosse as someone who is remembered for being a hardworking teammate and better friend, then I did my job. I would like people to be able to smile and laugh when my name comes to mind, but also be inspired and proud of themselves, because each one of my teammates has been a part of the person and player I've become.Â
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AK:Â It's hard to put into words how much this group of seniors mean to me. I have such a deep appreciation for everything that we have been through together over the last four years, on and off the field. Navigating through college, a Division I sport, and life all at the same time is really tricky. To say that they made me smile through all of it is a testament to how special our relationship is with each other. I've never laughed, cried, or cried laughing more than with these five girls. Not seeing their faces every day is definitely going to be a huge adjustment, but it's one that I know will make our group reunions that much more filled with crying laughter.Â
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AK:Â Senior Day and the G-word (graduation) have been an off-limits topic of conversation for our grade way before it even began sneaking up on us. The fact that my Senior Day is finally here seems pretty surreal. For almost 12 years now, my life has been dedicated to this sport.Â
Its given me so much more than I ever bargained for when I picked it up as a kid. I am proud of myself for completing all four years and extremely thankful for the support system (my parents, teammates, coaches and friends) that have helped me get there. I think on Senior Day, I'll probably get a little teary eyed because of how much I have loved playing and even more so, my experience here with such amazing friends. Â
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
AK:Â I think it goes without saying that I'm going to miss the actual sport of lacrosse. It sounds funny saying it now, but I would run six more run tests if it meant I got to keep playing for Lehigh women's lacrosse. For me, the people are what make this program so special though, and so hard to leave. I think my fellow seniors would agree, but leaving the younger girls, especially the juniors on our team, is going to be one of the hardest adjustments. They have become such an extension of my life here; saying that I am going to miss them is an understatement.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
AK: As of now, I'm not sure what my post grad career plans entail. I am in the process of applying and interviewing for jobs, but taking my time to pick the right opportunity for me. I am planning on traveling to Europe this summer with Kierstyn Voiro and just enjoying my last summer and lacrosse retirement.Â
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#12 Kelly McBrearty – Midfield/Defense – Ridgewood, N.J. – Finance
McBrearty has been an important member of the program since she stepped foot on campus. After getting into 25 games over her first three seasons, she has played in all 15 games this season, starting seven times with 17 groundballs, three caused turnovers and a draw control. A key member of Lehigh's defense in 2018, McBrearty has recorded multiple groundballs in six games this season, which included three groundballs and a caused turnover both at Wagner and at Holy Cross. McBrearty also collected two groundballs in big Patriot League wins at Army West Point and vs. Colgate. In the classroom, McBrearty has tallied a stellar 3.80 GPA in finance, earning a spot on the Dean's List every semester for a semester GPA over 3.6. She has also been named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll every year as well.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KM: It's hard to choose just one, but some of my favorite Lehigh women's lacrosse memories come from our Brown and White practice days. These practices are filled with a lot of different competitive games and drills, and it's always exciting to win one, or to win the day overall. These are the days where our team just enjoys being teammates and when we can have some competitive fun. I think my teammates would definitely agree with this being my favorite memory because of my reactions when my team wins.Â
How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KM: I would like to be remembered as someone who was there to make things easier for everyone, whether that was leading by example and working hard, trying to help my younger teammates when they had questions, or just by giving everyone a good laugh at practice (or at least trying to). Over my four years, I had a lot of different roles on the team, but I always tried to take what my coaches and teammates asked of me and do the very best I could, which I hope had a lasting impact on Lehigh women's lacrosse.Â
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KM:Â My fellow seniors have truly been my best friends at Lehigh since day one. We've been through so much together over the past four years, both on and off the field, which is the reason we are as close as we are. Having a such a tight-knit group of friends to experience all of college with is so special, and has made being at Lehigh unforgettable. It's going to be weird not living with them and spending every day together, but I am excited to see where the next chapter of our lives takes us.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KM:Â I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that my Senior Day is already here. I still remember the senior days of my teammates who graduated before me, and I never thought that my turn would come so quickly. Not only is the end of my Lehigh lacrosse career coming to an end, but my lacrosse career as a whole. This sport has been such a big part of my life ever since I started playing in the fourth grade. Being on this team has taught me so much about myself and I'm so grateful that I had this opportunity. However, it's definitely bittersweet because I am excited to see what comes next for me after Lehigh.Â
What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KM:Â I will definitely miss my teammates the most. I always knew that seeing my teammates was guaranteed to make my day brighter. I have made so many lasting friendships with people in every grade, and that is something really special. It doesn't matter what grade you're in or what your role on the team is; we have such an inseparable bond and I will definitely miss seeing all of their shining faces every day.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KM: After I graduation, I will be working in New York City. I accepted a position in the finance department at AppNexus, an advertising technology company.Â
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#14 Julianne D'Orazio – Midfield – Bryn Mawr, Pa. – Technical Entrepreneurship
D'Orazio is leaving Lehigh as one of the top players in program history. Despite only playing four games this season, her impact has been felt in a big way, first as a student-athlete and now student coach. D'Orazio recorded 10 goals, an assist, 14 groundballs, 10 draw controls and nine caused turnovers in just four games in 2018 to add to her already impressive career numbers. D'Orazio finishes with 103 career caused turnovers, second in school history, along with 130 groundballs and exactly 100 draw controls. She has also posted 77 career points, most coming late in her career as she continued to take her game to another level. D'Orazio was a two-time first team All-League honoree and an IWLCA second team All-Region honoree in 2016 while she is a two-time winning of the Coaches Award. Currently in graduate school in technical entrepreneurship, D'Orazio owns a 3.76 GPA and was named to the Dean's List this fall.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
JD: Throughout my career on the lacrosse team, there are games I will never forget that are specific to each year. My favorite Lehigh lacrosse memory this year has to be our win against Columbia this season. We started the game going down 5-1, but we fought back and Sonny scored with less 12 seconds left that marked Jill's 100th win as a coach. Over these past five years, Jill has been so influential to me and my development as a person and player. She is one of the greatest coaches and an incredible mentor to me. I am so happy I was a part of that milestone for her as a coach.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
JD: I hope to be remembered as someone who was one of the hardest workers and strived to get better every day, on and off the field. I hope to be remembered as an amazing teammate and someone who made the best of every situation.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
JD: Being a fifth year, I couldn't ask for a better group of seniors to let me hang around and accept me into their class for a year! Having been with them since freshman year, we have shared a ton of memories, on and off the field. From having parties on the sideline freshman year with Lexy as we watched Kierstyn and Haley score goals and Kay and Brady get GBs, to now watching all five of them absolutely crush it all over the field, we have had one heck of a ride together. And although no one cares, I take full credit for the nickname "Brady."
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
JD:Â The time has flown by. I honestly can't believe it's already Senior Day. I'm excited to celebrate our last regular season game on Frank Banko. I have so many awesome memories on this field, and I can't wait to watch my teammates have a day!
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
JD:Â For the past five years, lacrosse has always been the highlight of my day. It's safe to say, I am going to miss having the opportunity to play the sport I love every day.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
JD: I am currently exploring a few different opportunities that I can take after I complete my Master's program at the end of June.
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#21 Kayleen Kelly – Defense – Ellicott City, Md. – Industrial and Systems Engineering
Kelly played in 14 games as a freshman, starting 13 and posting 13 groundballs, 13 draw controls and eight caused turnovers. She went on to start all 18 games as a sophomore, recording 13 groundballs, 15 caused turnovers and a team-high 41 draw controls. Kelly was part of a defense which finished first in the Patriot League in goals against average, allowing just 8.00 per game. Then as a junior, Kelly posted 18 groundballs, 19 caused turnovers and 29 draw controls for a Lehigh defense which again led the league allowing just 9.67 goals per contest. Now as a senior, Kelly is currently second on the Mountain Hawks with 61 draw controls as one of two Mountain Hawks to have broken the previous school record of 47 (the other being Sondra Dickey). Kelly has added a team-leading 40 groundballs along with 17 caused turnovers. Kelly has thrived in the classroom, owning a 3.88 GPA as an industrial and systems engineering major. Kelly was named the team's Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2016, and was named to the Academic All-Patriot League team in 2017. Kelly has several perfect 4.0 terms and has been named to the Dean's List every semester.
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KK: This season overall has been my favorite "memory." While we have been through a lot of highs and lows as a team, I think there is truly something special about this year's team. Each teammate has made this season special for me.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KK: I would like to be remembered as a tough competitor, someone who never gave up and someone who always sought to encourage and love others. The legacy that I would like to leave at Lehigh is not my own, but can be summarized in the following bible verses: Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-10.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KK: I respect and admire each of them. I have seen the heart, passion, time, commitment and sacrifice my fellow seniors have made for our program over the past four years, and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to play with them. Together, we have faced both challenges and victories, each one shaping who we have become individually and as a class. Kierstyn, Haley, Lexy, and Kelly have each done so much for Lehigh Lacrosse, and I know they will be successful in whatever they do in the future. I will miss each of them, and I know each of them will be well missed on our team.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KK: It's a strange feeling. Lacrosse has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. There is so much I will miss about the game and being a part of Lehigh's team. Overall, I am just really grateful—grateful for the people who have supported me, pushed me, and invested in me and grateful for the opportunity. I am also thankful for my Lord and savior Jesus Christ, who has carried me through all the emotional and physical challenges of playing a division I sport. At the end of the day, I give Him credit for every success and victory. He carried me through injuries, sleepless nights, tough engineering courses, and everything in between. While I will miss competing at a high level, overall, I am thankful for the time I was given and I am excited for a new chapter in my life.  Â
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KK: I will miss the people. When I look back and think about Lehigh women's lacrosse, people are what made my experience. I will also miss living in the moments of each day—enjoying the view of the mountain from Banko, competing hard in speed workouts, doing stick work drills with the team, lining up for pipe game, etc.  Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KK: After graduation, I will be getting married and moving up to Syracuse, New York. In Syracuse, I will be starting a job as a Data Analyst for a healthcare consulting company. I will also be pursuing my master's in Health Systems Engineering part time through Lehigh's distance education program.
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In advance of Sunday's Senior Day vs. Bucknell (1 p.m. opening draw), Lehighsports.com caught up with the six seniors to reflect upon their careers.
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#1 Kierstyn Voiro – Midfield/Defense – Moorestown, N.J. – Finance
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KV:Â There are so many amazing moments that come to mind when I read this question, but my favorite lacrosse memory is during my sophomore year when we beat Boston University. The game was really exciting and we ended up winning by one goal in the final seconds to upset them on their home field. Losing to them twice my freshman year, especially the second loss in the quarterfinals that ended our season, made the win that much better.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KV:Â I would like to be remembered as someone who loved her team, loved the AUX, and someone who would do anything for the people she cared about. I hope that my work ethic, competitiveness and supportive attitude has had a positive impact on my teammates throughout my time as a Lehigh lacrosse player.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KV:Â My relationship with my fellow seniors is unlike anything else. Living with the same people and spending every day with each other has made us so close. I can't even imagine not being surrounded by these people every day after we graduate. We've been through so much together and I know I can count on them for anything. I truly believe my Lehigh experience would not be the same without my best friends. Â
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KV:Â It's crazy to think that the day I thought would never come is actually here. I started playing lacrosse in the third grade and to think that something I've worked towards since I was young will all come to end very soon is hard to swallow. Playing lacrosse at the Division I level has been a commitment, but at the same time, the most rewarding experience. I'm so happy I had the opportunity to play the sport that I love every day and make life-long friendships.
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KV: The thing I will miss most about Lehigh women's lacrosse is spending every day with my teammates and best friends. Being on this team has given me the opportunity to make so many great friends and memories that I will never forget. It is something I'll always cherish. Every single person on this team, the coaches and past teams have been so important to my four years at Lehigh and who I've become as a person. I'm grateful for everyone and everything this program has done for me. Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KV: After graduating, I plan to enjoy summer and travel with friends. I have accepted a position at JP Morgan Chase in their finance division and will start full-time in July.
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#3 Haley Wentzel – Attack – Gilbertsville, Pa. – Journalism
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
HW: Although not my favorite memory, I feel as though this memory captures what this team is like. During the bus ride after our exciting last-second win at Columbia, our bus broke down right by the Lehigh sign about seven minutes from the Varsity House. Too far to walk, but too close to get another bus; we were trapped. Standing on the side of the road with all of our bags waiting for our friends to pick us up, we literally could not stop laughing. It made me think how lucky I was to be with a group of girls who made a crappy situation after a big win so much fun.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
HW:Â I would like to be remembered as an authentic teammate who put relationships on and off the field as my highest priority. I genuinely looked forward to spending time playing the sport I love with a group of people I love. If I could leave a legacy, it would the passion and belief I had in the people surrounding me.
Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
HW:Â We've been with each other through every up and down the past four years have thrown at us. Being fortunate enough to play lacrosse together was just a bonus to the relationships we have off the field. My classmates have each individually impacted who I am and it makes me so happy that the past four years were simply just a great start to our lifelong friendships.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
HW:Â For as long as I can remember, I've worn the number three on a lacrosse field. Lacrosse has been such a major part of my life for so long that I will absolutely feel something missing for a little. However, physically stepping on the field has been a small piece of the larger reward lacrosse has given me. I appreciate every team and teammate I've been a part of and look forward to embracing the person this sport and this Lehigh lacrosse team has made me.
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
HW:Â The tailgates on game day! After a win, or a loss, walking out to all of our families supporting us is the greatest feeling. This team has given me a lot of things, but most importantly, it has given us all this connection with the Lehigh lacrosse family as a whole. And obviously, the food.
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What are your postgraduate plans?
HW: I'm planning to work in the marketing and media field of an advertising agency in Philly.
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#9 Alexis King – Defense – Berwyn, Pa. – Journalism
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
AK: The most vivid memory that comes to my mind is actually my run test during my sophomore year. I had some trouble passing it back in the day, and needed to rerun it the next morning. I was planning on waking up at 6 a.m. with the coaches and just banging it out on the field on my own. To my surprise, my entire house (Kierstyn, Haley, Kelly, and Nicolette) and Jules D'Orazio had their cleats on and were standing on the field that morning in the freezing cold ready to run it with me. The group literally pushed me through the entire test and helped me pass it with a second to spare. I had never felt so supported and appreciative in my entire life.Â
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
AK:Â If I can leave Lehigh lacrosse as someone who is remembered for being a hardworking teammate and better friend, then I did my job. I would like people to be able to smile and laugh when my name comes to mind, but also be inspired and proud of themselves, because each one of my teammates has been a part of the person and player I've become.Â
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
AK:Â It's hard to put into words how much this group of seniors mean to me. I have such a deep appreciation for everything that we have been through together over the last four years, on and off the field. Navigating through college, a Division I sport, and life all at the same time is really tricky. To say that they made me smile through all of it is a testament to how special our relationship is with each other. I've never laughed, cried, or cried laughing more than with these five girls. Not seeing their faces every day is definitely going to be a huge adjustment, but it's one that I know will make our group reunions that much more filled with crying laughter.Â
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
AK:Â Senior Day and the G-word (graduation) have been an off-limits topic of conversation for our grade way before it even began sneaking up on us. The fact that my Senior Day is finally here seems pretty surreal. For almost 12 years now, my life has been dedicated to this sport.Â
Its given me so much more than I ever bargained for when I picked it up as a kid. I am proud of myself for completing all four years and extremely thankful for the support system (my parents, teammates, coaches and friends) that have helped me get there. I think on Senior Day, I'll probably get a little teary eyed because of how much I have loved playing and even more so, my experience here with such amazing friends. Â
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
AK:Â I think it goes without saying that I'm going to miss the actual sport of lacrosse. It sounds funny saying it now, but I would run six more run tests if it meant I got to keep playing for Lehigh women's lacrosse. For me, the people are what make this program so special though, and so hard to leave. I think my fellow seniors would agree, but leaving the younger girls, especially the juniors on our team, is going to be one of the hardest adjustments. They have become such an extension of my life here; saying that I am going to miss them is an understatement.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
AK: As of now, I'm not sure what my post grad career plans entail. I am in the process of applying and interviewing for jobs, but taking my time to pick the right opportunity for me. I am planning on traveling to Europe this summer with Kierstyn Voiro and just enjoying my last summer and lacrosse retirement.Â
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#12 Kelly McBrearty – Midfield/Defense – Ridgewood, N.J. – Finance
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KM: It's hard to choose just one, but some of my favorite Lehigh women's lacrosse memories come from our Brown and White practice days. These practices are filled with a lot of different competitive games and drills, and it's always exciting to win one, or to win the day overall. These are the days where our team just enjoys being teammates and when we can have some competitive fun. I think my teammates would definitely agree with this being my favorite memory because of my reactions when my team wins.Â
How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KM: I would like to be remembered as someone who was there to make things easier for everyone, whether that was leading by example and working hard, trying to help my younger teammates when they had questions, or just by giving everyone a good laugh at practice (or at least trying to). Over my four years, I had a lot of different roles on the team, but I always tried to take what my coaches and teammates asked of me and do the very best I could, which I hope had a lasting impact on Lehigh women's lacrosse.Â
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KM:Â My fellow seniors have truly been my best friends at Lehigh since day one. We've been through so much together over the past four years, both on and off the field, which is the reason we are as close as we are. Having a such a tight-knit group of friends to experience all of college with is so special, and has made being at Lehigh unforgettable. It's going to be weird not living with them and spending every day together, but I am excited to see where the next chapter of our lives takes us.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KM:Â I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that my Senior Day is already here. I still remember the senior days of my teammates who graduated before me, and I never thought that my turn would come so quickly. Not only is the end of my Lehigh lacrosse career coming to an end, but my lacrosse career as a whole. This sport has been such a big part of my life ever since I started playing in the fourth grade. Being on this team has taught me so much about myself and I'm so grateful that I had this opportunity. However, it's definitely bittersweet because I am excited to see what comes next for me after Lehigh.Â
What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KM:Â I will definitely miss my teammates the most. I always knew that seeing my teammates was guaranteed to make my day brighter. I have made so many lasting friendships with people in every grade, and that is something really special. It doesn't matter what grade you're in or what your role on the team is; we have such an inseparable bond and I will definitely miss seeing all of their shining faces every day.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KM: After I graduation, I will be working in New York City. I accepted a position in the finance department at AppNexus, an advertising technology company.Â
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#14 Julianne D'Orazio – Midfield – Bryn Mawr, Pa. – Technical Entrepreneurship
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
JD: Throughout my career on the lacrosse team, there are games I will never forget that are specific to each year. My favorite Lehigh lacrosse memory this year has to be our win against Columbia this season. We started the game going down 5-1, but we fought back and Sonny scored with less 12 seconds left that marked Jill's 100th win as a coach. Over these past five years, Jill has been so influential to me and my development as a person and player. She is one of the greatest coaches and an incredible mentor to me. I am so happy I was a part of that milestone for her as a coach.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
JD: I hope to be remembered as someone who was one of the hardest workers and strived to get better every day, on and off the field. I hope to be remembered as an amazing teammate and someone who made the best of every situation.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
JD: Being a fifth year, I couldn't ask for a better group of seniors to let me hang around and accept me into their class for a year! Having been with them since freshman year, we have shared a ton of memories, on and off the field. From having parties on the sideline freshman year with Lexy as we watched Kierstyn and Haley score goals and Kay and Brady get GBs, to now watching all five of them absolutely crush it all over the field, we have had one heck of a ride together. And although no one cares, I take full credit for the nickname "Brady."
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
JD:Â The time has flown by. I honestly can't believe it's already Senior Day. I'm excited to celebrate our last regular season game on Frank Banko. I have so many awesome memories on this field, and I can't wait to watch my teammates have a day!
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
JD:Â For the past five years, lacrosse has always been the highlight of my day. It's safe to say, I am going to miss having the opportunity to play the sport I love every day.Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
JD: I am currently exploring a few different opportunities that I can take after I complete my Master's program at the end of June.
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#21 Kayleen Kelly – Defense – Ellicott City, Md. – Industrial and Systems Engineering
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What's your favorite Lehigh Women's Lacrosse memory up until this point?Â
KK: This season overall has been my favorite "memory." While we have been through a lot of highs and lows as a team, I think there is truly something special about this year's team. Each teammate has made this season special for me.
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How would you like to be remembered? What legacy would you like to leave at Lehigh?
KK: I would like to be remembered as a tough competitor, someone who never gave up and someone who always sought to encourage and love others. The legacy that I would like to leave at Lehigh is not my own, but can be summarized in the following bible verses: Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-10.
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Describe the relationship with your fellow seniors.
KK: I respect and admire each of them. I have seen the heart, passion, time, commitment and sacrifice my fellow seniors have made for our program over the past four years, and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to play with them. Together, we have faced both challenges and victories, each one shaping who we have become individually and as a class. Kierstyn, Haley, Lexy, and Kelly have each done so much for Lehigh Lacrosse, and I know they will be successful in whatever they do in the future. I will miss each of them, and I know each of them will be well missed on our team.
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Describe the feeling going into Senior Day. What are some of the thoughts going through your mind as you're nearing the end of your collegiate career?
KK: It's a strange feeling. Lacrosse has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. There is so much I will miss about the game and being a part of Lehigh's team. Overall, I am just really grateful—grateful for the people who have supported me, pushed me, and invested in me and grateful for the opportunity. I am also thankful for my Lord and savior Jesus Christ, who has carried me through all the emotional and physical challenges of playing a division I sport. At the end of the day, I give Him credit for every success and victory. He carried me through injuries, sleepless nights, tough engineering courses, and everything in between. While I will miss competing at a high level, overall, I am thankful for the time I was given and I am excited for a new chapter in my life.  Â
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What will you miss most about Lehigh Women's Lacrosse?
KK: I will miss the people. When I look back and think about Lehigh women's lacrosse, people are what made my experience. I will also miss living in the moments of each day—enjoying the view of the mountain from Banko, competing hard in speed workouts, doing stick work drills with the team, lining up for pipe game, etc.  Â
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What are your postgraduate plans?
KK: After graduation, I will be getting married and moving up to Syracuse, New York. In Syracuse, I will be starting a job as a Data Analyst for a healthcare consulting company. I will also be pursuing my master's in Health Systems Engineering part time through Lehigh's distance education program.
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Players Mentioned
Women's Lacrosse vs. La Salle
Saturday, February 28
2026 Women's Lacrosse Preview
Wednesday, February 04
2025 Lehigh Women's Lacrosse Season Preview
Thursday, February 13
Lehigh Sports Central: Women's Lacrosse 2022
Monday, April 01















