Susquehannock junior Katelyn Welch has been selected to play on the USA U19 Select Lacrosse team.
Welch was recruited for this team at a lacrosse tournament called the Capital Cup when playing with her elite club team. Welch explains how much of a shock it was to her when she found out she had been selected.
“I got an email from the coach saying that he wanted me to join the team, and at first I was in shock and wasn’t sure if it was real,” said Welch. “When I called the coach and he said it was real and I should start packing because they wanted me to join and go to Europe, I knew it was real and I was so excited.”
Welch will be joining the team on their journey to Europe to play in the AIST (American International Sports Team) 2014 lacrosse tours. The AIST lacrosse tours takes place in a two-week period over the summer. The team is guaranteed two games but can play up to five against the international teams. While there, the team will also go to smaller tournaments.
Welch plays for both the school lacrosse team and an elite club team called TLC. With this opportunity to play on the US team and her experience with her two other lacrosse teams, Welch believes it will help to get attention from college recruiters.
“It is definitely a plus that will draw coach’s eyes,” said Welch. “I made the national lacrosse team and not many girls get this opportunity. There are only 25 girls on the team which means it takes a lot to get on it.”
Celebrating this opportunity with Welch are her teammates and coaches. Girls lacrosse coach Mike Marshner is excited and supportive of Welch.
“I am not surprised that Katelyn is trying out and making teams at the highest level,” said Marshner. “She is a hard worker on and off of the field. She has a passion for the game of lacrosse and this passion helps fuel her desire to become a better player. It is a privilege to coach Katelyn.”
Junior Amber Orner who has played with Welch for three years could not be more happy for her.
“It is so cool to have someone from our school playing on the national team,” said Orner. “I know she will represent Susky and make us proud.”
Welch is also invited to join them in a UK lax fest tour but is not yet sure if she will attend. In order to pay for these trips, Welch is currently fundraising by asking local businesses for sponsorships.
