Olivia Deschenes

Olivia Deschenes is a gifted and hard working athlete, who excels in both lacrosse and field hockey.

“Olivia is one of our best defensive players and plays a key role in our zone defense,” Lake Region varsity girls’ lacrosse Coach David Keenan said. “She is tough and determined competitor who never quits.”

Unfortunately last week, Olivia tore her ACL and will be out for the rest of the season. But instead of worrying about herself and complaining about not being able to play, Olivia asked Coach Keenan if she could help train her replacement.

“In addition to helping Coach Bush and me on the sidelines, Olivia is also helping the middle school coach with their defense,” Coach Keenan said.

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Olivia is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Dechenes File

Athlete: Olivia Deschenes

Year in School: Sophomore

Hometown: Naples

Parents: Suzi and Rob Deschenes

Sports you play: Lacrosse, field hockey

School organizations: National Honor Society, Student Council, Varsity Club

School honors: High Honors (freshman and sophomore years), NHS inductee, Good Kid Award

Why did you choose to play lacrosse? I chose to play lacrosse because it was new and it had never been offered before. Also, my softball coach at the time switched to coach lacrosse, so I decided to play too.

What is the most difficult part of the game? The most difficult part is knowing all of the rules because they are always changing.

What do you enjoy the most about the sport? I like that every lacrosse game is always different. Every team that we play has their own style of the game, which makes it very interesting and exciting to play and watch.

What do you feel you need to work on and why? I need to work on getting stronger overall so I don’t injure myself again.

Why is teamwork important? Teamwork is important because you can’t get the job done by yourself. Each person on a team can have personal success, but those personal successes put all together is what makes one great success.

What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you? My coaches have shaped me into the person I am today. They have taught me more than just the game. I have learned many life lessons through them that will stick with me forever.

How do you want people to view you as an athlete? I want people to see me as a good teammate who never gives up and is always giving 110% effort.

Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most? I will most remember my coaches, who taught me to always give my best effort and to never give up. I’ll also remember my teammates and the friendships we made. But most importantly, I’ll remember how lucky I was to have such supportive parents.