Midfielder Emily Messinese of Gerstell Academy and defender Paris Colgain of St. Paul's School for Girls are the only players from Maryland to qualify for the US Lacrosse Under-17 Select team.
Two other A Conference standouts, McDonogh midfielder Kori Edmondson and Glenelg Country School defender Cydney Lisk, also earned their way on the U-15 squad.
In addition, the coaches, Molly Ford (U-15) and Caitlyn Phipps (U-17), are Notre Dame Prep alumnae.
A National Team Development Program combine last month at US Lacrosse headquarters in Sparks was the key evaluation event for the approximately 300 players who participated.
Prior to that, more than 1,300 players competed in 21 regional trials (boys and girls), conducted in partnership with the Premier Lacrosse League and Women’s Professional Lacrosse League earlier in the summer.
The USA Select teams will compete against rivals from Canada during the Fall Classic at US Lacrosse Oct. 18-20.
"After years in the making and many miles traveled to work with and evaluate the top lacrosse players from across the country, we are thrilled to announce the 88 young men and women who will represent the United States in our showcase event this October," said Natalie Wills, senior manager fo the NTDP. "The national combine was an incredible event and all those involved should be very proud for what they’ve accomplished.”
Colgain and her SPSG teammates showed their mettle during the A Conference campaign by employing a defense that helped the Gators reach the A Conference final before falling in double overtime, 5-4, to McDonogh in May.
“It means so much to be chosen to play for the Team USA U-17 Select Team,” Colgain said. “The competition at the national combine was great, and I am honored to be included on the final roster. I won't be eligible to try out for the next U-19 team, so this may be my only opportunity to wear a Team USA jersey and represent my country. I am really looking forward to playing at the Fall Classic. I feel like I can learn so much being around such accomplished athletes that have reached the absolute top level of our sport.”
Messinese said that being selected for the elite team is a “huge honor” and one that will help her to better her game.
“It was a really good opportunity to play with all the girls that I typically compete against,” she added, “and learn their style as well as meet coaches and evaluators and gain their perspective on things that I can improve on.”
Edmondson said that she is looking forward to spreading the word about her favorite sport.
“Being part of the first US National Team is an honor that I'm so very thankful for,” she said. “Word's can't describe what it means to have the opportunity to wear the red, white, and blue with my fellow teammates to help grow the sport of lacrosse on a national level to someday become an Olympic sport.
“I’d like to thank the administration and coaches at the McDonogh School and my club team (M&D Lacrosse) for always pushing me to the next level,” she concluded.”