Meet Our Lacrosse Mentors
Better Together is excited to announce its sport-specific mentorship program. Athletes can be matched with a lacrosse mentor who plays at the collegiate or high school level. Mentors can help the student-athlete navigate their physical, mental, and emotional journey and the challenges they will face on and off the field. Using resources from Better Together and their own experiences, Mentors will help the younger generation of athletes have the tools for a better chance of happiness and success.
.png)

Lillia Montemarano
Class of 2024, University of Michigan
Major: Psychology
Sport: Women's Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
University of Michigan Lacrosse Team (2022-2024)
-
University of Denver Lacrosse Team (2020-2021)
-
Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Lacrosse Team (2013-2020)
-
MC Elite Lacrosse Club (2013-2019)
Personal Statement:
"I played Division I Lacrosse at the University of Michigan and recently graduated with a degree in psychology. While our program finished with its most successful season in history, ranked within the top 5, and I concluded my career as an All-American, I value the lessons I learned throughout my time at the university and the relationships within my team more than our accolades. After closing a 15-year chapter of playing organized sports, I’m not ready to step away from the field and know I have more to give to athletics. I’m eager to combine my education in psychology, personal experience with mental health, and dedication to mental health advocacy with my lifelong love for athletics."

Zachary Webb
Boston University, Class of 2029
Holderness School, Class of 2025
Major: Business Major
Sport: Lacrosse Athlete
Athletic Background:
-
4 Leaf Lacrosse
-
Holderness School
-
Boston University Commit
Personal Statement:
“I am committed to Boston University for lacrosse and served as a two-sport varsity captain at Holderness School.”
.jpeg)
Della Goodman
Georgetown University, Class of 2028
Major: Business
Sport: Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
"Hi! My name is Della Goodman. I am from Rye, NY and I am an incoming freshman on the Georgetown Women’s Lacrosse team. I’ve played lacrosse since first grade. Since then lacrosse has been an outlet for me to be to de-stress. I played club lacrosse for Predators a club team based out of Westchester, NY for 4 years. Along with lacrosse, I’ve played travel soccer since 3rd grade, and 3 years on the high school team ending with a state championship win in 2023. I believe having strong mental health is equally as important as having strong physical health for the game."

Eliza Bowman
University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Major: Graduate Student in Sport Management
Sport: Women’s Lacrosse Athlete
Athletic Background:
-
CT Grizzlies
-
Greenwich Academy
-
Johns Hopkins University
-
University of Connecticut
Personal Statement:
“I grew up in Darien, CT, and played club lacrosse for CT Grizzlies. At Greenwich Academy, I played lacrosse and ice hockey. I then attended Johns Hopkins University for my undergrad, playing Division I lacrosse and studying Political Science. After overcoming an ACL tear and a coaching change, I transferred to UConn to complete my final two seasons of eligibility and earned my Master’s degree in Sport Management. I am passionate about student-athlete mental health and aim to support others through similar challenges, just as my teammates, friends, family, and administrators supported me.”

Bodie Cannata
Fairfield University, Class of 2028
Major: Business
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
NE Twisters
-
Pingree School
Personal Statement:
"I was a four-year varsity player at Pingree School, where I earned All-New England, All-League, and All-Region honors. My dedication to lacrosse has shaped my high school career, and I am excited to continue my journey at Fairfield University, majoring in Business. I look forward to bringing my skills and leadership to the collegiate level."

Hayla Dora
Harvard University, Freshman
Sport: Lacrosse
Personal Background:
-
From Spring Lake, NJ
-
Working at an ice cream shop
-
Committed to Harvard, participated in the Committed Games in Lake Placid
-
Attended Lawrenceville School, played basketball, cross country, and lacrosse
-
Older sister is a junior at Princeton, also plays lacrosse
Athletic Background
-
Tried various sports before falling in love with lacrosse
-
Mentored by older sister, who helped with the recruiting process
-
New coach in high school, met after every game to discuss frustrations and struggles
Personal Statement:
“I wanted to try every sport and eventually fell in love with lacrosse. Watching my older sister, who plays lacrosse at Princeton, inspired me to approach the game differently. She was my mentor and guided me through the recruiting process. Having someone to talk to and knowing that someone is there for you is crucial. My new high school coach was a great support, meeting with me after every game to discuss my frustrations and struggles. This experience has made me determined to play more and want it more.”

Grady Taylor
Cornell University, Class of 2029
Holderness School, Class of 2025
Sport: Lacrosse Athlete
Athletic Background:
-
3D Lacrosse
-
4 Leaf Lacrosse Club
-
Holderness School
-
Committed to play at Cornell University
Personal Statement:
“Since I was old enough to walk, a lacrosse stick has found its way into my hands! Growing up in Falmouth, Maine, I branched out to club lacrosse programs in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, playing for 3D Lacrosse and 4 Leaf Lacrosse. Early last fall, I committed to Cornell University and will be graduating in 2029. I am entering my senior year at Holderness School, where I have been voted co-captain for a second year.”

Tessa Shields
University of Massachusetts Amherst, Class of 2025
Major: Finance
Sport: Women’s Lacrosse Athlete
Athletic Background:
-
Phillips Exeter Academy (Varsity Lacrosse, Soccer, Basketball)
-
Laxachusetts (Club Lacrosse)
-
NEFC (Club Soccer)
Personal Statement:
“I’m a rising senior at UMass Amherst on the women’s lacrosse team. I attended Phillips Exeter for high school, where I played varsity lacrosse, soccer, and basketball. I played club lacrosse for Laxachusetts and club soccer for NEFC. I’m very excited to be a part of Better Together and to help athletes of all levels navigate the ups and downs of sports.”

Charlie Faldi
Colorado College, Junior
Major: Economics
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Colorado College Lacrosse
-
3D New England Red
-
Pingree School Varsity Lacrosse
-
Played on 3D New England Red, ranked #3 in the country
-
All Eastern Independent League All-Star
-
Salem News All-Star
-
All New England Lacrosse Player for Pingree School
-
Named Colorado College Athlete of the Week
Personal Statement:
"As a dedicated lacrosse player and economics student at Colorado College, I strive for excellence both on and off the field. At Pingree School, I earned numerous accolades and contributed to 3D New England Red’s national ranking. Now at Colorado College, I’ve started games and earned Athlete of the Week honors. I’m committed to building a strong team dynamic and using my experiences to mentor and inspire my teammates, while pursuing my athletic and academic goals with hard work and dedication."
.webp)
Taylor Priestley
Northern Michigan University, Class of 2025
Major: Secondary Education English
Sport: Women’s Lacrosse Athlete
Athletic Background:
-
3D Oregon
-
3D Pacific
-
Westview High School
-
Northern Michigan University
Personal Statement:
“I played lacrosse at Westview High School, where I was a four-year varsity starter and captain during my junior and senior seasons. I was named 2021 Varsity Player of the Year, Metro Player of the Year, and First Team All-Conference Midfielder. In 2019, I was Varsity Midfielder of the Year and Second Team All-Conference Midfielder. In 2018, I was Varsity Rookie of the Year and received Honorable Mention All-Conference Defense.”

Jimmy Ayers
Class of 2027, Johns Hopkins University
Major: Economics
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Johns Hopkins University Men’s Lacrosse Team
-
St. John’s Prep Lacrosse Team
-
3D New England Club Lacrosse
-
Hamilton-Wenham Youth Lacrosse
-
Club Hockey
Personal Statement:
"Growing up in New England, hockey was my first love, but discovering lacrosse in middle school opened a new path for me. My journey through various teams and levels of play has been enriched by the friendships and mentorships I’ve formed. As a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University, I am excited to continue my lacrosse career and share my experiences with others. I look forward to supporting and guiding young athletes through their own journeys."

Madeline Egan
Committed to Dartmouth College
Class of 2025, Buckingham Browne and Nichols School
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Dartmouth College Lacrosse Team (committed)
-
Buckingham Browne and Nichols School Lacrosse Team (Captain)
-
Buckingham Browne and Nichols School Basketball Team (Captain)
-
Mass Elite Club Lacrosse
-
Club Soccer
Personal Statement:
"Playing multiple sports throughout my life has taught me the importance of dedication, teamwork, and leadership. As a captain of both my high school lacrosse and basketball teams, I have developed strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of team dynamics. I am excited to continue my athletic journey at Dartmouth College and look forward to contributing to the lacrosse team while supporting and inspiring young athletes."

Colin Maloney
Marquette University, Class of 2028
Major: Real Estate
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Marquette University Lacrosse Team
-
New England Twisters Club Lacrosse
-
Governors Academy Lacrosse Team
Personal Statement:
"Growing up, I played every sport and never specialized in one, which made me a better all-around athlete. I started playing lacrosse in my freshman year of high school when I didn’t make the varsity baseball team. I played for the New England Twisters and attended Governors Academy. I believe that my diverse athletic background has shaped me into a versatile and resilient athlete. Starting lacrosse later than most, I quickly developed a passion for the sport and have embraced every challenge along the way. I am excited to continue my journey at Marquette University and look forward to contributing to the team while also supporting my fellow athletes through the Better Together program."
.jpeg)
Chase Picard
Class of 2028, Georgetown University
Major: Finance
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Georgetown University Lacrosse Team
-
Holderness School Lacrosse Team
-
4 Leaf Lacrosse Club
Personal Statement:
"I started out as a competitive freestyle skier, which led me to find my home at Holderness School. As I navigated my freshman and sophomore years, I discovered a deeper passion for lacrosse and the team camaraderie that came with it. Although I was always a competitive lacrosse player, my sophomore year was when I truly began to pursue it with the hopes of playing at the collegiate level. Now, I am a freshman midfielder at Georgetown University. I am excited to share my experiences and help guide others on their athletic journey and look forward to supporting and guiding others through the Better Together program".

Annie Smith
Bates College, Class of 2027
Major: Psychology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Bates College Lacrosse Team
-
Mass Elite Club Lacrosse
-
Pingree School Varsity Lacrosse Team
-
Pingree School Varsity Soccer Team
Personal Statement:
"Balancing two varsity sports in high school and continuing to play at the collegiate level has underscored the importance of mental health and wellness in athletics. The guidance I received from mentors was crucial to my development and success. Through Athletes Better Together, I am eager to offer advice and support to younger athletes, helping them navigate their journeys and achieve their goals."

Bridget Feely
Western Colorado University, Class of 2025
Major: Clinical Physiology and Psychology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Standley Lake High School Soccer Team
-
Standley Lake High School Basketball Team
-
Club Soccer Teams
Personal Statement:
"My diverse athletic experiences have shaped my resilience, teamwork, and dedication. Competing in multiple sports taught me the importance of versatility and perseverance. As an outside defender for Western Colorado University, I bring these qualities to the field, striving to support my team and excel in every match. My background in Clinical Physiology and Psychology further fuels my passion for understanding the mental and physical aspects of athletic performance."

Greg Canning
Mercer University, Class of 2029
Major: Kinesiology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Top Gun Fighting Clams
-
The Rivers School
-
Mercer University
Personal Statement:
"My extensive experience in lacrosse and other sports has instilled in me a strong sense of resilience, leadership, and teamwork. Competing at various levels has taught me the importance of dedication and perseverance. As a freshman at Mercer University, I am excited to continue my athletic journey and contribute to the success of our lacrosse team while pursuing my studies in Kinesiology."

Griffin O’Neil
Dartmouth, Class of 2025
Major: History
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Holderness School Varsity Football Team
-
Holderness School Varsity Lacrosse Team
-
3D Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
"I am excited to join the Better Together platform to offer an outlet for student-athletes to relate and enhance their athletic experience. Today, social media can be incredibly deceiving, leading many student-athletes to doubt themselves and feel pressured to compare with their peers. Having dealt with similar ups and downs through transitions in my career at Dartmouth, I hope to guide the next generation towards success by helping them realize that the process is not black and white."

Josie Vogel
Cornell University, Class of 2025
Major: Government & Sociology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
3D Lacrosse
-
Milton Academy
-
Revolution Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
"Playing multiple sports from a young age has instilled in me a deep appreciation for competition and teamwork. Discovering lacrosse in fifth grade was a turning point, leading me to join Revolution Lacrosse and later 3D Lacrosse, where I honed my skills and grew as a player. My high school years were filled with diverse athletic experiences, including soccer, squash, and cross country. Being recruited to Cornell was a dream come true, and my time here has been incredibly rewarding both academically and athletically. I am passionate about using my experiences to inspire and mentor others, and I look forward to making a positive impact in my future endeavors. My diverse athletic experiences have shaped my resilience, teamwork, and dedication. Competing in multiple sports taught me the importance of versatility and perseverance. As an outside defender for Western Colorado University, I bring these qualities to the field, striving to support my team and excel in every match. My background in Clinical Physiology and Psychology further fuels my passion for understanding the mental and physical aspects of athletic performance."
.webp)
Grace Murphy
Stonehill College, Class of 2026
Majors: Elementary Education and Psychology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Holderness School
-
Central Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
"Playing multiple sports growing up has instilled in me a love for competition and teamwork. My journey from dreaming of college hockey to committing to college lacrosse has taught me the importance of adaptability and following my passion. Coaching for Central Lacrosse has allowed me to give back to the sport and mentor younger players, which I find incredibly rewarding. As a junior and captain of the lacrosse team at Stonehill College, I am excited to continue growing both academically and athletically. Balancing my double major in Elementary Education and Psychology with my athletic commitments has been challenging but fulfilling, and I look forward to the opportunities ahead."

Michael Ayers
Tufts University, Class of 2025
Major: Economic
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
3D New England
-
St. John’s Prep
-
Tufts University
Personal Statement:
"Lacrosse has been a defining part of my life, teaching me the values of leadership, resilience, and teamwork. As a senior and captain at Tufts University, I have had the honor of leading my team to a National Championship and earning individual accolades such as 3rd team All-American and 1st team All-NESCAC. Balancing my academic pursuits in economics with my athletic commitments has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. I am passionate about using my experiences to inspire and mentor younger players, and I look forward to making a positive impact both on and off the field."

Jack Whitham
UMass Amherst, Class of 2028
Major: Economics
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Episcopal School of Dallas
-
Holderness School
-
4Leaf Army
Personal Statement:
"Lacrosse has been a significant part of my life, teaching me discipline, teamwork, and resilience. My journey from Dallas to UMass Amherst has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and I’m excited to continue growing both on and off the field."

Jack Calichman
Hamilton College, Class of 2028
Major: Economics
Sport: Lacrosse Player
Athletic Background:
-
New England Twisters
-
Lynnfield High School
-
Phillips Exeter Academy
-
Hamilton College
Personal Statement:
Jack Calichman began playing lacrosse in third grade, joining the New England Twisters by sixth grade. He played varsity for three years at Lynnfield High School before committing to Hamilton College. After a post-graduate year at Phillips Exeter Academy, Jack now studies Economics and plays lacrosse at Hamilton.
"Lacrosse has shaped my character, teaching me hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. My journey from Lynnfield to Hamilton has been one of growth, and I’m excited to continue my academic and athletic career."

Owen Faldi
Union College, Class of 2028
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Twisters
-
Holderness School
-
Union College
-
2-time Lakes Region Champion, NEPSAC Honorable Mention
Personal Statement:
"Reflecting on my journey in life and lacrosse, I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible mentors who have guided and inspired me both on and off the field. Their support has been invaluable in shaping me as a player and person. Now, I’m passionate about paying it forward and supporting others in the same way, helping them grow and succeed just as I have been throughout my lacrosse career."

Max Becker
Committed to Dartmouth
Pingree School, Class of 2025
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Penguins
-
NE Twisters
-
Waltham High School
-
Pingree School
Personal Statement:
"I grew up playing hockey, lacrosse, baseball, basketball, and track. In high school, I focused on hockey and lacrosse until an injury after my freshman year at Pingree forced me to drop hockey. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to lacrosse while managing the hockey team in the winter.
Playing multiple sports has fueled my love for competition and teamwork. Though my hockey career ended, it allowed me to fully commit to lacrosse. Managing the team taught me leadership, and I’m excited to continue both my athletic and academic journey at Dartmouth."

Andrew Almquist
Babson College, Class of 2028
Major: Entrepreneurship (Starting Finance)
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Twisters
-
Wakefield Memorial High School
-
The Governors Academy
-
Babson College
Personal Statement:
"I was a 3-year starter at The Governors Academy, earning ALL-ISL and ALL-NEPSAC Honorable Mention in my sophomore and junior seasons, and ALL-ISL honors in my senior year. Now, I’m a freshman at Babson College.
Lacrosse has shaped my discipline, resilience, and leadership. My time at The Governors Academy prepared me for the challenges ahead. As I start my journey at Babson, I’m excited to pursue my passion for entrepreneurship and finance while continuing to grow as a lacrosse player. The skills I gain on and off the field will be invaluable for my future."

Zach Davis
Union College and University of Vermont, Class of 2024
Major: Environmental Studies, pursuing MBA
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
3D New England
-
Deerfield Academy
-
Union College
-
University of Vermont
Personal Statement:
"I grew up in Western Massachusetts, playing multiple sports like lacrosse, soccer, ski racing, and baseball. In high school, I focused on varsity soccer and lacrosse, which led to recruitment offers for both sports. I chose Union College and dedicated myself to lacrosse, helping my team reach the National Championship in 2022 and earning two All-American honors. With one year of eligibility left due to COVID-19, I’m now at the University of Vermont, finishing my lacrosse career and pursuing an MBA. Lacrosse has taught me dedication, resilience, and teamwork, and I’m excited to apply these lessons to my future career."

Jack Combs
University of Vermont, Class of 2027
Major: Business
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Nationals Lacrosse Club
-
Fusion Lacrosse Club
-
Westtown Boys Lacrosse
-
Holy Trinity Boys Lacrosse
-
University of Vermont Men’s Lacrosse
-
Team (Sophomore Capt. 2024-2025)
Personal Statement:
"I graduated from The Westtown School as the 2023 lacrosse MVP, first team all-conference, and Waring Award recipient for top male spring athlete. During my freshman season at Vermont, I earned America East First Team All-Conference, All-Rookie, and All-Tournament honors, as well as America East Defensive Player of the Week and USILA NCAA D1 Team of the Week recognition. Now, I'm heading into my sophomore season as a 2024-2025 team captain.
Lacrosse has taught me dedication, resilience, and leadership. As a captain, I’m excited to lead by example while balancing my business studies and athletic career. I look forward to the challenges and growth ahead."

Jamie Book
Dickinson College, Class of 2028
Major: Data Analytics/Quant Econ (Undecided)
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Top Gun Fighting Clams
-
Pingree School
-
Dickinson College
Personal Statement:
"I’ve played multiple sports since I could walk, including lacrosse, hockey, soccer, skiing, and baseball. I focused on lacrosse in middle school and committed to playing in college during my junior year of high school. Now a freshman at Dickinson College, I’m excited to develop my skills on the field and in the classroom, balancing my passion for lacrosse with my studies in data analytics and quantitative economics. The journey has been challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited for what’s ahead."

Haven Dora
Princeton University, Junior
Major: School of Public and International Affairs
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Princeton Varsity Women’s Lacrosse Starting Attacker
-
2024 Second Team All-Ivy, IWLCA Second Team All-Region
-
Set single-season (40) and single-game (6) assist records
-
2024 Team USA U20 World Lacrosse Champion, Semifinal Player of the Match
-
USA Lacrosse National Team Development (2019, 2021)
-
2022 Under Armour Senior All-American
-
Trinity Hall Top Female Athlete, 4x Varsity Lacrosse Captain
-
Graduated with 266 career lacrosse points, setting a school record
-
USA Lacrosse All-American & All-Academic Team
-
Member of 2021 NJ State & Prep B League Championship Teams
-
Set 2 school records in cross country, Top-10 at 2020 state championships
Personal Statement:
“As a dedicated student-athlete, I strive to excel both on the field and in the classroom. My experiences have taught me the value of teamwork, resilience, and leadership. I am passionate about creating a positive sports culture and supporting the mental health and well-being of my fellow athletes. Through mentorship and advocacy, I aim to inspire others to achieve their best and foster a community of support and growth.”

Zoe Montgomery
Manhattan College (2023-2024), Northern Michigan University, Sophomore
Major: Athletic Coaching with a minor in Sociology
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Northern Michigan University Women’s Lacrosse
-
Manhattan College Women’s Lacrosse
-
Indy United Club Team
-
Penn High School Varsity Lacross
-
Under Armour All-American Goalie
-
American Select Goalie
-
USA Lacrosse All-American
-
Jackie Pitt Award recipient
-
High School Team Captain (Junior and Senior years)
-
Played ice hockey from age four to sixteen
Personal Statement:
"I've been passionate about sports since childhood, starting with ice hockey before transitioning to lacrosse in middle school. As an All-American goalie and team captain in high school, I've developed resilience and leadership. After a concussion setback at Manhattan College, I'm excited to continue my lacrosse career at Northern Michigan University and look forward to supporting my teammates and mentoring others in the athletic community."

Liliana Fleming
Northern Michigan University, Freshman
Major: Mathematics
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Northern Michigan University Women’s Lacrosse
-
Nor’easter Lacrosse Club
-
3D New England South
-
Amity Regional High School Varsity Lacrosse
-
1st Team Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Attacker
-
1st Team Connecticut High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) Class L All-
State Player -
CHSCA Senior All-Star Team Player
-
2024 Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC) Championship Winner
Personal Statement:
"As a freshman on the women’s lacrosse team at Northern Michigan University, I’m excited to continue my athletic and academic journey. At Amity Regional High School, I was proud to be a 1st Team SCC attacker and All-State player. I’m passionate about mathematics and aim to excel in my studies while contributing to a strong, supportive team environment. Through hard work and perseverance, I hope to inspire my teammates and the wider lacrosse community."

Jack Broderick
Dickinson College, Freshman
Major: International Business & Management
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
New England Twisters
-
New England Blazers
-
Pingree School
-
Dickinson College
Personal Statement:
"I first started playing lacrosse in 1st grade and loved the sport and team aspect. I played North Andover Youth Lacrosse until 8th grade. Once I decided to play in college, I joined the New England Twisters and Pingree School teams. After graduating from Pingree, I went to Dickinson College, where I currently play lacrosse.
Lacrosse has been a significant part of my life since I was in 1st grade. The sport has taught me the value of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. Playing for various teams, including the New England Twisters and Pingree School, has shaped my character and prepared me for the challenges of college athletics. At Dickinson College, I am excited to continue growing both academically and athletically, while pursuing my passion for International Business & Management. I believe that the skills and experiences I gain on and off the field will help me succeed in my future career."

Karina Sethi
University of Vermont, Class of 2027
Major: Public Health
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Predators Lacrosse (Club)
-
Sacred Heart Greenwich (High School)
-
University of Vermont
Personal Statement:
"Playing lacrosse for the past ten years has been an incredible journey, taking me to new places and introducing me to amazing people. I’ve cherished many moments and overcome various challenges along the way. Lacrosse has taught me valuable life lessons that I apply daily. I aim to use my experience to benefit and educate others about the sport."

Kyle Goodwin
Union College, Class of 2027
Major: Political Science
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
3D New England
-
Newton North High School
-
Union College
Personal Statement:
"At Newton North High School, I ran indoor track in the winter and played lacrosse in the spring. I served as senior captain for track and junior and senior captain for lacrosse. Initially recruited to play lacrosse at Skidmore College, I transferred to Union College after my freshman year to continue my academic and athletic career.
Lacrosse and track have been integral parts of my life, teaching me the values of leadership, teamwork, and perseverance. Serving as a captain in both sports at Newton North High School helped me develop strong leadership skills and a deep appreciation for the team dynamic. Transferring to Union College has allowed me to continue my academic and athletic pursuits in an environment that better fits my goals. I am passionate about political science and look forward to combining my academic interests with my athletic experiences to make a positive impact in my future career."

Siena Puglisi
Princeton University, Class of 2027
Major: Economics
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
Capital Lacrosse Club
-
Bishop Ireton High School
-
Princeton Women’s Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
"I’ve played lacrosse since I was six, starting at the recreational level and then moving to STARS Lacrosse Club. In high school, I played for Capital Lacrosse Club and spent four years on Varsity at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where I earned First Team All-State and All-Conference awards. My senior year, I served as Varsity Captain for both lacrosse and field hockey and was nominated the Alexandria Sportsman Club’s Women’s Lacrosse Player of the Year. Now, as I enter my sophomore year as a defender on the Princeton D1 Women’s Lacrosse team, I continue to strive for excellence both on and off the field. "

Kaden Freelove
Boston University, Class of 2028
Major: Business Management
Sport: Lacrosse
Athletic Background:
-
4Leaf
-
Holderness School
Personal Statement:
Kaden Freelove was a four-year dual varsity athlete at Holderness, excelling in both hockey and lacrosse. As Captain for both teams, he led them to three Lakes Region Championships—two consecutive titles in lacrosse and one in hockey. His accolades include being named a Lakes Region All-Star in his sophomore year, Defensive Player of the Year in his junior year, and an All-American in his senior year. Committed to Boston University during his junior year, Kaden continues to pursue his passion for lacrosse while majoring in Business Management."
_edited.jpg)
Andrea Renyold
Boston College, Graduate
Major: Public Health
Sport: Lacrosse
Personal Statement:
“During my recruiting process, it would have been helpful to have someone to talk to who had gone through it before me. I would have valued not only the advice and guidance, but also the opportunity to share what I was experiencing. This program creates the forum for these conversations, and I hope to be the person that I never had for a younger athlete!“
“Andrea Reynolds played midfield for Boston College from 2020 to 2024. During her time there, she won two National Championships and two ACC Championships. In their National Championship win over Northwestern last May, Andrea had 5 draw controls, 2 goals, and an assist. She is currently 9th all-time for the program in draw controls. Before BC, Andrea was a multi-sport athlete pursuing ski racing and field hockey competitively.”
Meet Our Team Leaders

Daphne Faldi
Co-Founder
Director of Mentor Training and Community Outreach

Dr. Kimberly O'Brien, PhD, LICSW
Co-Founder
Director of Programs

Maura McCarthy
Co-Founder
Coordinator of Marketing and Community Outreach
This platform allows seasoned student-athletes to mentor and guide younger athletes by sharing their life experiences and complimenting our structured Better Together Mental Health Literacy and Leadership programming.
Mentorship involves a combination of clinician-facilitated topic-specific group sessions and four (4) one-on-one virtual Zoom sessions with a designated Better Together Mentor. The mentor and the mentee will engage around the Better Together course content at their own set agreed-upon times. Mentors will be compensated for all sessions.
.png)
.png)
Lead by Dr. Kimberly O'Brien, PhD, LICSW
Better Together provides customizable programming to support athletes’ mental health and well-being throughout your athletes-development. We aim to optimize the processes of wellness, balance, success, and happiness. We provide each athlete with a current or former college athlete who will support, inspire, and mentor your athletes. While you improve your athlete’s athletic skills, we improve your athlete’s mental skills. Our curriculum and practical tools will help each athlete find the best version of themselves.