Sterling, Va. — Dominion High School junior Jessie Lee has made a verbal commitment to continue her academic and lacrosse career at Villanova University beginning in the 2020-2021 academic year.
“It was important to me to find a Division I school with both strong academics and a strong team with a good dynamic,” Lee said. “Villanova quickly checked the DI and strong academics boxes and additionally had highly ranked science programs which I am interested in.”
[adrotate banner=”19″]Lee has been a part of the Dominion varsity lacrosse team for the past two years and helped the Titans reach a 2018 VHSL 4A State semifinal. Lee is one of the league’s top draw control specialists and continues to dominate in the circle.
“The team really respects Jessie and her style of play and leadership,” Dominion head coach Diane Traynor said. “She leads by example on and off the field.”
Lee’s recruitment process was stressful as the NCAA introduced new rules about when college coaches could start recruiting prospective student-athletes.
“Before September 1, communication with college coaches was a one-way street,” Lee said. “No one really knew what to expect come September 1, and the uncertainty added to the stress of the situation.”
When September 1 finally rolled around, Lee received interest from a bunch of schools, and Villanova piqued her interest.
From there, she immediately set up an unofficial visit so that she could meet the coaching staff – led by eighth-year head coach Julie Young – and tour the campus.
“While on my visit, the head coach spoke of the team’s motto, describing the importance of the team’s dynamic and bond,” Lee said. “She really helped me feel that Villanova was a place I would definitely be happy.”
Lee has been playing lacrosse since the second grade and grew to love the sport but never imagined she’d be playing at the Division I level.
“Five years ago the idea of this was nothing but a dream so having it actually happen is awesome,” Lee said. “I could not be more excited to continue my academic and lacrosse career at Villanova.”
