The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team has been a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division I landscape. As a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the team has consistently demonstrated its prowess on the field, with a strong reputation for excellence and a loyal fan base.
Early Years and Development
The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse program was established in 1996, with Julie Myers serving as the team's first head coach. In its early years, the team competed in the American Lacrosse Conference (ALC) before joining the ACC in 2005. This move marked a significant turning point for the program, as it allowed the team to compete against some of the nation's top teams and provided increased exposure and resources.
Conference and Tournament Success
Under the guidance of head coach John Sung, the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team has experienced considerable success in conference and tournament play. In 2013, the team won its first ACC Championship, defeating Maryland 13-12 in the title game. This victory marked a significant milestone for the program and paved the way for future success.
In addition to its ACC Championship win, the team has also made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament. In 2018, the team advanced to the NCAA Quarterfinals, where it ultimately fell to Boston College. This marked the team's deepest run in the tournament to date.
Key Players and Achievements
Throughout its history, the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team has been led by a number of talented and dedicated players. Some notable standouts include:
- Kelly Naslonski: A four-time All-American and two-time ACC Midfielder of the Year, Naslonski is one of the program's most decorated players.
- Morgan Ondrlak: A two-time All-American and ACC Rookie of the Year, Ondrlak has been a key contributor to the team's success in recent years.
- Maddy Wollmuth: A four-time All-ACC selection and two-time All-American, Wollmuth has been a dominant force on the field, earning numerous accolades throughout her career.
Coaching and Support Staff
The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team is led by head coach Pam Hixon, who took the reins in 2020. Hixon brings a wealth of experience to the program, having served as an assistant coach at several institutions, including the University of Maryland and the University of Virginia.
The team's support staff includes assistant coaches Jessy Morgan and Megan Will, who provide guidance and expertise in areas such as offense, defense, and goalkeeping.
Facilities and Resources
The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team is fortunate to have access to some of the nation's top facilities and resources. The team's home stadium, Thompson Field, features a state-of-the-art turf field and seating for over 1,000 spectators.
In addition to its on-field facilities, the team also has access to a number of resources, including a strength and conditioning program, sports medicine services, and academic support.
Academic Excellence
The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team is not only committed to excellence on the field, but also in the classroom. The team has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to academic achievement, with numerous players earning Academic All-American honors and graduating with honors.
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach. The team regularly participates in a number of initiatives, including:
- Youth clinics: The team offers a number of youth clinics and camps throughout the year, providing young players with the opportunity to learn from and interact with the team's players and coaches.
- Charity events: The team participates in a number of charity events, including fundraising runs and walks, to support local organizations and causes.
Gallery of Virginia Tech Women's Lacrosse Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team?
+The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team was established in 1996, with Julie Myers serving as the team's first head coach. The team has since become a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and has experienced considerable success in conference and tournament play.
Who are some notable players from the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team?
+Some notable players from the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team include Kelly Naslonski, Morgan Ondrlak, and Maddy Wollmuth, all of whom have earned numerous accolades and All-American honors throughout their careers.
What are the team's facilities and resources like?
+The Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team has access to some of the nation's top facilities and resources, including a state-of-the-art turf field and seating for over 1,000 spectators at Thompson Field. The team also has access to a strength and conditioning program, sports medicine services, and academic support.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Virginia Tech women's lacrosse team. From its early years to its current success, the team has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence on and off the field.