Katie Desimone, is one of the best lacrosse players on all of Long Island. The reigning Class AA MVP enters her senior year with sky high expectations. Katie’s MVP year was part of St. Anthony’s “Redemption Tour”, as was famously printed across their sweatshirts a season ago. After a devastating defeat in 2018, the friars were on a mission. Katie led her team to an impressive 17-1 record, including a much anticipated 9-7 victory over Sacred Heart in the championship game. Katie put in three goals and added one assist; at long last Katie’s dream season was realized. Katie is not done yet, with one season left at St. Anthony’s prior to her arrival at Duke University, Katie and the team are looking to repeat. With a player of Katie’s caliber returning there is no reason to expect anything less.
Q: How has the start to your senior year been so far, how are you gearing up for the upcoming season?
Senior year has been going great so far. I’m enjoying my last year at St. Anthony’s and having the best time. I am currently on the tennis team so when I don’t have practice I’m usually training with my two friends Belle and Hunter. For St. Anthony’s, fall ball starts next week so our whole team is super pumped to finally be back together to start working for our goal to win the championship again!
Q: How is this season going to different, as reigning champions?
Every year we have the same thought in mind and that is to win the CHSAA championship. After graduating almost 19 seniors we definitely have some spots to fill but with the determination that this team has we are going to begin where we left off.
Q: Last season the friars motto was “redemption tour” what will the slogan be in 2020?
This year I think our motto is going to be “one team one mission”. After winning the championship last year everyone’s eyes are on the same thing and that is to win the championship again.
Q: Who would you consider your biggest influence when it comes to lacrosse?
My biggest influence when it comes to lacrosse would be either Kayla Treanor or Brooke Griffin. Growing up I loved watching these two players play and I would always try to mimic their style of play. Having Brooke Griffin as an assistant coach at Duke, I cannot wait to be able to learn from her and grow my knowledge of the game.
Q: Why did you choose Duke?
I didn’t only choose Duke for its amazing athletics but for its competitive academic atmosphere. When I was being recruited I knew that Duke would give me the best opportunities and help me grow better as a person. I know that Coach Kimel and the rest of the coaching staff at Duke will make me into the best player I can be.
