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    • Hopkins 2019 Lacrosse Captains pictured from left to right: Alex Hughes ’19. Audrey Braun ’19, Olivia Capasso ’19. and Matt Stevenson ’19.

Athletes of the Issue: The Leaders of Girls Lacrosse

Alex Yuen ’21
Varsity Girls Lacrosse captains Audrey Braun ’19 and Olivia Capasso ’19 have been playing lacrosse together for the past four years.
Braun began playing lacrosse in middle school as a defender and Capasso in seventh grade as a midfielder. Braun has been a Varsity letter winner for the past three years and Capasso has received a Varsity letter for the past four years, as well as an FAA (Fairchester Athletic Association) Honorable Mention.

Braun and Capasso emphasized the importance of determination. “There are days when Liv and I are out there for four hours. Finding that extra time during the school days to go out and work on weak spots is crucial,” said Braun. Capasso added, “You can’t just pick up the stick when spring season starts.”

Both captains agree that creating a team with strong chemistry is critical: “We’re very close with the team. We have team dinners to build the strong trust that carries onto the field…. We’re just looking to build on that trust,” stated Braun. Now, as captains, they plan to push the team’s limits. Capasso explained, “This season we are going to be a lot more serious about the game. Last season we didn’t have the record that we wanted so we’ll be working on creating more focused and motivated players.”

Head Coach Katie Keogh is excited to work with their outstanding talent and excellent leadership: “Audrey and Olivia are great leaders on and off the field. They are responsible, organized, approachable, and good role models for the team. I want to use their desire and competitive drive to fuel the other girls to work harder and have a strong season.”

Braun and Capasso will lead their team through new routines. “This season, we’re getting time on the turf, which is new to us. The boys have been great about splitting and we look forward to having the practice time to improve our game on that surface,” said Braun.

Capasso and Braun’s commitment during practices and games is admired by players. Lucy Panagos ’20 said, “[their] philosophy is lead by example. Unlike captains I’ve had who boss the team around, they are calm and work tirelessly to keep practices running smoothly without becoming frustrated with complications. I admire their level-headedness and unwavering commitment to the team, but above all the spirit which they bring to the sport that not all captains can.”

Fiona O’Brien ’21 described the qualities she admires most in her captains: “[Braun] is extremely organized and driven. She perfectly balances being both a coach and a friend on the team…. [Capasso] is an amazing lacrosse player and always works her very hardest in practices and games. They will be great role models for current and upcoming players.”

These athletes have built up extensive knowledge from their experience in the sport and look to help their teammates improve as much as possible this season. Capasso commented, “It’s important to see everyone working their hardest on the field. The best games are the ones that are highest in energy.” Braun also stressed the importance of playing stronger teams and added, “With a hard opponent you can test your skills and you are forced to improve.” This season, the captains are ready to take on the challenges of the FAA. “It’s not only about understanding your own strengths as a player but understanding the strengths of every girl who’s on the field with you,” said Braun.

Leaving behind Hopkins careers full of achievement, Braun and Capasso both plan to continue playing beyond high school.

Both hope to play club lacrosse or walk on to their college teams next year.
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