In the heart of Oakland University, the Women’s Club Lacrosse Team is carving out a name for itself both on and off the field. With a mix of seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers, the team is more than just a group of athletes — they’re a family united by a shared passion for the game and a drive to make their mark in the collegiate lacrosse scene.
“The team dynamic has been great,” freshman Mackenna Fauteux said. “We’ve had a couple practices now and we’re starting to jump into game-like drills and it’s been awesome. Right now we’re in the off-season, so we only have two practices a week. For me it hasn’t put a burden on the time dedicated to school work and it’s been nice to just slowly dive back into all things lacrosse.”
Having coached lacrosse for four years, and her second year coaching at OU, Head Coach Allyson Hart has a clear vision for the team this year.
“Coming from being a player on the team not too long ago, the coaching has definitely evolved even with just a short time,” Hart said. “I’ve needed to understand how I can accommodate not only the players who have been there a while, but also including and working with the new girls who may have not played as much or haven’t played. Finding the balance on making everyone happy has been the key to coaching.”
By working hard in the fall and learning how the team can work together, it will set them up for success during the season in the spring.
“Another main goal of mine is always trying to spread the game,” Hart said. “Seeing if we can get more players and more people to get on board with coming out, working hard and playing/loving the game of lacrosse.”
For many students, the club offers a unique opportunity to continue playing a sport they love while balancing the demands of college life. It’s a chance to remain active and competitive without the intense pressure often associated with varsity sports.
“I have been playing lacrosse for eight years,” freshman Maddie Loken said. “Playing in college is definitely different from high school because it is way more aggressive, and in college, you have way more opportunities and rules such as running through the crease and playing defense with your stick horizontal.”
Loken, like many others, appreciates the freedom and flexibility that comes with playing on a club team. In a sport known for its intensity and competitiveness, Loken draws strength from her personal journey, using it to fuel her passion for lacrosse.
“The best way I prepare for games is by listening to a playlist I used to listen to with my dad, before he passed away,” Loken said. “My dad passed away in January 2022 due to stage four pancreatic cancer. We always listen to the same couple songs before a game so I tend to do the same thing.”
For any questions or to learn more about the women’s club lacrosse team, their instagram is @ouwclublax or email them at [email protected] for more information.
