Purcellville, Va. — Loudoun Valley High School senior Kylie Leigh has made a commitment to continue her academic and lacrosse career at Lynchburg University starting in the 2020-2021 academic year.
“I chose Lynchburg because the minute I stepped on campus I felt at home,” Leigh said. “The coach also stood out to me because from the moment I met him he showed true compassion and determination, and that’s something I look for in a coach as they will be a big part of your student-athlete life.”
Before their 2020 season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Lynchburg head coach Bruce Reid was in his 18th season at the helm of the Division III Hornets and was leading his team through its twelfth straight .500-or-better season, sitting at 3-2.
“I think I will bring grit to Lynchburg’s women’s lacrosse team,” Leigh said. “I’m tough, I have spirit, and I have determination to get better every day and win.”
The 5-foot-4 midfielder’s love for the fast-paced game combined with the feeling of a second family she finds within her teams is what drives her to keep playing.
“I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today, and I’m proud to be committed to a school for lacrosse,” said Leigh, who plays club for 3D Virginia. “It’s one of the best feelings to have after putting in countless hours of practices, games, clinics, and tournaments.”
Leigh was a member of the varsity lacrosse team at Loudoun Valley all four years of her high school career. Throughout those four years, both Leigh and her team have had to overcome the obstacle of a new coach three different times.
“Having a relationship with your coach is important as you head into your season. It’s hard to have a good relationship with a person you’ve never met,” Leigh said. “I think the struggles we have faced as a program have allowed our team to become the closest team Valley has ever had.”
Despite not having a senior season like many others in Loudoun County, Leigh has enjoyed every moment she has played for the Vikings. She looks to take her experiences and passion for the game onto the Hornets field this coming school year.
“I’ve loved every second that I’ve got to play for Loudoun Valley,” Leigh said. “My teammates are my best friends, and I’m truly blessed for every moment I get to play with them on the field.”
