Olivia Deschenes

Olivia Deschenes has returned to girls’ lacrosse this spring stronger and more determined than ever after missing most of last season due to a torn ACL.

“Olivia, along with Hailey Parsons, anchors the most challenging positions in our zone defense,” Lake Region varsity girls’ lacrosse Coach David Keenan said. “While I hated to lose Olivia last season, the time she spent on the sidelines and helping us coach the defense has increased her knowledge of the game and her value to the team significantly.”

Coach Keenan describes Olivia as a “fierce competitor” and becoming somewhat of an expert on shooting space.

“Olivia is doing a great job running the defense for us. She also excels in field hockey and in the classroom,” Coach Keenan added. “We’re just really happy that we have her for another year.”

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 Deschenes File

Name: Olivia Deschenes

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Naples

Parent: Suzi Deschenes

Sports you play: Field hockey, lacrosse

School organizations: National Honor Society, Interact, Math Team, Student Council, Student Cabinet, Varsity Club.

School honors: National Honor Society, Honors/High Honors

Why did you choose to play lacrosse? It was a new sport and all of my friends switched from softball to play, so I did too!

What is the most difficult part of the game? Not being in shooting space.

What do you enjoy the most about lacrosse? I love that I am able to grow and play with the same group of girls, who I began with.

What do you feel you need to work on and why? I need to work on my speed because it is very important to have the ability to change pace when getting the ball up the field.

Why is teamwork important? Teamwork is important because it helps to overcome obstacles that one person could not overcome alone.

What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you? My coaches have helped shape me into the person I am today. They have pushed me to work harder than I ever thought possible, and I will be forever thankful for that.

How do you want people to view you as an athlete? I want people to view me as a supportive teammate, who always works her hardest and never gives up.

Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most? Aside from all the friendships I have made through sports, I think 10 years from now my favorite memory will be beating York on their Senior Night to get into the playoffs!