We have greatly enjoyed the opportunity to have our daughters play lacrosse for W&L (Kelly '07 and Colleen '09). In reflecting on their involvement and the program in general, one word comes to mind: balance. Both of our daughters wanted to attend a top liberal arts college and continue to be a part of a nationally competitive lacrosse program. Kelly attended W&L directly, while Colleen played lacrosse for a Division I program and eventually transferred to W&L.
W&L has top notch facilities, a strong lacrosse tradition, and coaches that understand the type of student-athlete that is attracted to W&L. While all college sports require a time commitment, W&L affords the opportunity to play top-notch competition without having to miss many classes. Most conference games are relatively short bus rides and non-conference games, or longer trips, are typically played on the weekends. Additionally, because of the outstanding facilities and mild climate, W&L usually hosts several top teams from the north. The norm on the team continues to be of one of respect and collegiality among the players. The concern of team hazing or of upper class hierarchies, which can cause problems at some programs, are a non-issue at W&L. Furthermore, the parents foster an environment of support for all players and coaches. Parents enjoy the after game tailgates as much or more than the players, as parents develop a close relationship with other parents and players that continues beyond graduation.
Because the type of student-athlete that attends W&L wants a well-rounded college experience, they will be typically involved with other academic, volunteer, and social activities. Both of my daughters had the opportunity to study abroad. Some lacrosse programs frown on missing the "Fall Ball" season, joining a sorority (if they desire), or being involved in other campus groups. My daughters had the opportunity to work on the student newspaper as editor and assistant editor, be active in their sorority, and be involved with a variety of other activities on campus. Yet with all of these opportunities, the team is bound by a competitive desire to be a top ten lacrosse program. The expectations are high, but the girls relish the challenge. One aspect of W&L's lacrosse program that parents sometimes don't appreciate, is the fact the most games are covered over the internet and some are even webcast live. This allows parents, siblings, and friends that have work and other commitments to catch the action live and be part of the program from far away.
Both of my daughters have greatly enjoyed their academic and lacrosse careers at W&L. The time goes fast, but the lessons learned and friendships developed among players and parents last a lifetime. W&L has provided a unique opportunity for my daughters to achieve their academic and athletic goals. The dedicated faculty, W&L honor system, and speaking tradition translates into a college experience that can not be replicated and permeates the demeanor of the players and parents alike. We could not have been more pleased with our daughters' decision to attend W&L and to be part of a successful team legacy.
After a summer at home in Norfolk, Va., I will begin working at the end of August for SNL Financial in Charlottesville, Va. I interned with them last summer and had a great experience. The company is a fun place to work and many of my co-workers are young 20-somethings, just out of college. SNL is considered a financial information and technology company. It provides market data and news specifically on four major industries, and a lot of people compare its major functions to Bloomberg, although they are somewhat different.
