UNC Women’s Lacrosse 2025-2026
- Thread starter airball
- Start date
I don't like the change in the draw rule. If you need to eliminate two draws to speed up the game, then why not go back to 30 minute halves and eliminate the 2:00 breaks before the second and fourth periods? That will shorten the game by at least 4:00 (if not more). There are factions in both the men's and women's games that are trying to do away with faceoffs/ draws. This was tried many years ago on the men's side,. Players, fans and coaches hated it and the experiment failed. Some people never learn.
Parker Kitchel (M&D 2027 Black)
Byers Martin (M&D 2027 Black)
As noted previously, current Tar Heels Caroline Godine, Kate Levy and incoming freshman Payton Magday all played for M&D Black. All three also attended McDonogh School.
There are several McDonogh players who play on #1 rated M&D Black. Two of these are Parker Kitchel and Byers Martin, whose paths to the upcoming recruiting season have seemingly differed significantly.
Parker Kitchel has been a very visible member of the 2027 class. Only three players have a higher IL evaluation score than her 90. I guess it’s fair to say that Kitchel is proof that talent is in the eye of the beholder. At the June 2025 Best-in-Class event, she was not identified as a standout by the BIC staff, but Inside Lacrosse identified her as one of three standouts, stating as follows:
”Kitchel has incredible field awareness. She fights for the shot, seeing the smallest lane using her speed to get to cage. She is quick to shoot the second her hands are free and has eyes on the cage. Off-ball, she times her cuts very well and has the ability to catch and shoot with both hands.”
Discovering surprising new talents can be exciting, which might explain the seeming inconsistency of reports on Kitchel. The fact that she has been so visible as a class member her lack of novelty might have worked against her. But Parker Kitchel is a prominent player in the 2027 class and will be highly sought in recruiting.
Byers Martin, on the other hand, has sort have flown under the radar until recently (if it’s possible for a McDonogh player to be overlooked). At June 2025’s Best-in-Class event, she was identified as a grade-4 standout by the BIC staff, with these remarks:
”Martin is a grinder. She has great speed, size and athleticism and is very strong defensively. I think she does some of her best work defensively and in between the 30s. I saw her push transition on multiple occasions, showing her speed and decision making. She's the type of competitor you want to scrap with in the middle of the field and fits the Draw/Gritty Grinder bucket perfectly given she has top tier athleticism.”
This year, for the first lime BIC assigned style/role categories for the standouts. .Byers Martin was labeled as a “Draw Member/Gritty Grinder.” Her description suggests a defensive midfielder who is a valuable “glue player” for a team.
On the other hand, Byers Martin does not have an evaluation score from Inside Lacrosse, which evidences her comparative low recruiting profile. A 2024 ACL injury was a further setback. But in the past week her selection to the USA Women‘s U17 team increased her visibility. Her selection is an honor and should contribute to her growth as a player … and to her visibility.
Byers Martin (M&D 2027 Black)
As noted previously, current Tar Heels Caroline Godine, Kate Levy and incoming freshman Payton Magday all played for M&D Black. All three also attended McDonogh School.
There are several McDonogh players who play on #1 rated M&D Black. Two of these are Parker Kitchel and Byers Martin, whose paths to the upcoming recruiting season have seemingly differed significantly.
Parker Kitchel has been a very visible member of the 2027 class. Only three players have a higher IL evaluation score than her 90. I guess it’s fair to say that Kitchel is proof that talent is in the eye of the beholder. At the June 2025 Best-in-Class event, she was not identified as a standout by the BIC staff, but Inside Lacrosse identified her as one of three standouts, stating as follows:
”Kitchel has incredible field awareness. She fights for the shot, seeing the smallest lane using her speed to get to cage. She is quick to shoot the second her hands are free and has eyes on the cage. Off-ball, she times her cuts very well and has the ability to catch and shoot with both hands.”
Discovering surprising new talents can be exciting, which might explain the seeming inconsistency of reports on Kitchel. The fact that she has been so visible as a class member her lack of novelty might have worked against her. But Parker Kitchel is a prominent player in the 2027 class and will be highly sought in recruiting.
Byers Martin, on the other hand, has sort have flown under the radar until recently (if it’s possible for a McDonogh player to be overlooked). At June 2025’s Best-in-Class event, she was identified as a grade-4 standout by the BIC staff, with these remarks:
”Martin is a grinder. She has great speed, size and athleticism and is very strong defensively. I think she does some of her best work defensively and in between the 30s. I saw her push transition on multiple occasions, showing her speed and decision making. She's the type of competitor you want to scrap with in the middle of the field and fits the Draw/Gritty Grinder bucket perfectly given she has top tier athleticism.”
This year, for the first lime BIC assigned style/role categories for the standouts. .Byers Martin was labeled as a “Draw Member/Gritty Grinder.” Her description suggests a defensive midfielder who is a valuable “glue player” for a team.
On the other hand, Byers Martin does not have an evaluation score from Inside Lacrosse, which evidences her comparative low recruiting profile. A 2024 ACL injury was a further setback. But in the past week her selection to the USA Women‘s U17 team increased her visibility. Her selection is an honor and should contribute to her growth as a player … and to her visibility.
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It has been confirmed. We have added Sophie Straka from Yale. Redshirt-SR, was important to Yale’s success last year
Well, there you are.
Sophie Straka played at Yale. She missed her junior season due to injury — which is why she has another year of eligibility. She was elected captain of a strong Yale team last season and started all 20 games. As uncfan1013 indicated, she is a defender.
Welcome, Sophie.
Sophie Straka played at Yale. She missed her junior season due to injury — which is why she has another year of eligibility. She was elected captain of a strong Yale team last season and started all 20 games. As uncfan1013 indicated, she is a defender.
Welcome, Sophie.
Negai Nakazawa played in 53 games at Louisville, 45 of which she started. A midfielder, she scored 52g and had 27a.
She has been a regular on Japan’s national teams, most recently in the Sixes tournament in China. Japan lost to the USA in the semifinals and finished 4th. In 2024, she helped Japan finish 3rd in the U20 World Championship in Hong Kong; she was the only Japanese player selected to the all tournament team. Her sister, Kokoro, played four years at Louisville, graduating in 2024.
Welcome, Negai.
She has been a regular on Japan’s national teams, most recently in the Sixes tournament in China. Japan lost to the USA in the semifinals and finished 4th. In 2024, she helped Japan finish 3rd in the U20 World Championship in Hong Kong; she was the only Japanese player selected to the all tournament team. Her sister, Kokoro, played four years at Louisville, graduating in 2024.
Welcome, Negai.
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I just watched some of Negai's taped when she was playing with Japan. If you did not know better her attacking ability reminds you a lot of MW's. This is a good replacement IMO. I think she scored more goals than MW last year. If so, than we will not miss a beat. Also, our freshman class coming in is another stellar class. Given AP and CC more playing time since MW's spot open now, its going to be fun to watch. This team is going to be loaded again with more weapons on the offense. Replacing our quarterback, AH is going to be something to watch, but I think we can do it be a committee of young ladies. Having the injured players back like EI and company should also help. Go Heels and welcome to the family you two.
Riley Davis (HHH Philly Girls 2027)
While there is no unanimity about the class of 2027 rankings, a player who is likely top 5 and arguably #1 is Riley Davis. Recently she has recorded the highest IL evaluation (93) and she received glowing reviews from both Inside Lacrosse and Best-in-Class for her performance at the June BIC event.
IL’s 93 grade at BIC was accompanied by these comments:
”Davis is clearly one of the most dominant players in the class. At 5'10", her height is eye-catching alone. But watch her play for just a few minutes and you can tell just how impactful her presence is on the field. Her dodging is smooth and the crossover as a dual sport athlete (basketball) is obvious. Her change of direction is much like a crossover, and her ability to read and intercept on defense resembles a strong off-ball defender in a 2-3 zone.”
In its write-up about BIC entitled “Corley, Davis, Kitchel Lead Standouts at 2027 Best in Class Event”, Inside Lacrosse added these remarks:
“Davis is a generational athlete whose natural ability is highlighted on every play. She is tall and powerful but can play with quickness and finesse. There is little she can’t do and she has a hand in nearly every play when she is on the field.”
Riley Davis was categorized by Best-in-Class as a Two-Way Middie with this write-up:
“Davis is a 3 sport athlete where you just know the things she does on the field carry over. I've been so impressed by her ability to cut, re cut, and finish with both hands. She's the kind of kid and athlete that could be D1 ready now. Won 90% of the draws to herself or put the ball in a spot where her team could get it. She is an elite 2 way. She didn't get beat on D. Pushes transition, beats 1v1, makes the right pass, always in the. right spot. Davis reminded me of the impact Eliza Osburn had at our inaugural BIC for the 2024s.”
Anyone who draws comparisons to Eliza Osburn attracts my attention. Davis attends high school at Academy of Notre Dame de Namur (Villanova PA) and plays club lacrosse with Big HHH, which was the club of current Tar Heels Darcy Felter and Ellie Traggio.
While there is no unanimity about the class of 2027 rankings, a player who is likely top 5 and arguably #1 is Riley Davis. Recently she has recorded the highest IL evaluation (93) and she received glowing reviews from both Inside Lacrosse and Best-in-Class for her performance at the June BIC event.
IL’s 93 grade at BIC was accompanied by these comments:
”Davis is clearly one of the most dominant players in the class. At 5'10", her height is eye-catching alone. But watch her play for just a few minutes and you can tell just how impactful her presence is on the field. Her dodging is smooth and the crossover as a dual sport athlete (basketball) is obvious. Her change of direction is much like a crossover, and her ability to read and intercept on defense resembles a strong off-ball defender in a 2-3 zone.”
In its write-up about BIC entitled “Corley, Davis, Kitchel Lead Standouts at 2027 Best in Class Event”, Inside Lacrosse added these remarks:
“Davis is a generational athlete whose natural ability is highlighted on every play. She is tall and powerful but can play with quickness and finesse. There is little she can’t do and she has a hand in nearly every play when she is on the field.”
Riley Davis was categorized by Best-in-Class as a Two-Way Middie with this write-up:
“Davis is a 3 sport athlete where you just know the things she does on the field carry over. I've been so impressed by her ability to cut, re cut, and finish with both hands. She's the kind of kid and athlete that could be D1 ready now. Won 90% of the draws to herself or put the ball in a spot where her team could get it. She is an elite 2 way. She didn't get beat on D. Pushes transition, beats 1v1, makes the right pass, always in the. right spot. Davis reminded me of the impact Eliza Osburn had at our inaugural BIC for the 2024s.”
Anyone who draws comparisons to Eliza Osburn attracts my attention. Davis attends high school at Academy of Notre Dame de Namur (Villanova PA) and plays club lacrosse with Big HHH, which was the club of current Tar Heels Darcy Felter and Ellie Traggio.
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Maybe I missed this rule change above, but I’m excited about the new requirement to manage down the time between goal and draw. In high-scoring games that has always been an opportunity to save 10-15 min out of games commonly over 2:15 IMO. Mostly it has been lazy referees and coaches using that time like a T/O that created it IMO. Hope it’s really emphasized!
Inner 3 hashes only could be to the advantage of teams who minimize fouls, as Carolina has always endeavored to do. That and, depending on how it is executed, the extension of green card fouls being 1 minute penalties all over the field could also change the game for the better if coaches and referees lead the way to reducing the stupid and illegal pushes in the back that have been pervasive at schoolastic and club level and some D1 programs for a very long time (see ~2015 Syracuse ACC title game win). Carolina’s history of emphasizing/prioritizing great positioning and footwork over eventually necessary but 1. foul-intensive and 2. balance-reducing … pushing with arm extension could further improve the game and be to the advance of Carolina’s defense IMO.
I believe that there are few great defensive coaches out there who can teach position and footwork and equal pressure applied with the legs not arm extension. “Hard to do”/coach + Carolina’s long-term historical excellence = advantage Tar Heels if, …IF it’s enforced appropriately (I’m doubtful honestly).
Inner 3 hashes only could be to the advantage of teams who minimize fouls, as Carolina has always endeavored to do. That and, depending on how it is executed, the extension of green card fouls being 1 minute penalties all over the field could also change the game for the better if coaches and referees lead the way to reducing the stupid and illegal pushes in the back that have been pervasive at schoolastic and club level and some D1 programs for a very long time (see ~2015 Syracuse ACC title game win). Carolina’s history of emphasizing/prioritizing great positioning and footwork over eventually necessary but 1. foul-intensive and 2. balance-reducing … pushing with arm extension could further improve the game and be to the advance of Carolina’s defense IMO.
I believe that there are few great defensive coaches out there who can teach position and footwork and equal pressure applied with the legs not arm extension. “Hard to do”/coach + Carolina’s long-term historical excellence = advantage Tar Heels if, …IF it’s enforced appropriately (I’m doubtful honestly).
Enna Corley (Hero’s Green 2027)
A listing of the top 10 players in the class of 2027 almost certainly includes Enna Corley, a Californian (Marlborough School, L.A.) who comes across country to play club lacrosse for Hero’s Green 2027. Rated a 5 by Best-in-Class, she is described as an “Initiator - players whom (sic) we see having a strong ability to create and get to the cage or start an offense.” (It seems to me that BIC categories “Initiators‘ and “2 Way Middies” are the most versatile BIC classifications; Chloe Humphrey and Jamie Ortega are Initiators).
Here is BIC’s write-up on Corley:
“Corley has flash and substance. She has great stick-work and is creative. She showed great IQ and was versatile with and without the ball. She's shown her ability to score off the dodge, but also made a huge leap in her off-ball play. Her 2 handedness gives her an edge when initiating. She dodges to score, but makes great decisions when the slide comes. Her energy on the field is infectious.”
In scoring her performance a 90, Inside Lacrosse made EC a headliner in its BIC article “Corley, Davis, Kitchel Lead Standouts at 2027 Best in Class Event:”
“Undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the class, Corley is quick and smart with a powerful shot and elite stick skills. She has a plethora of dodges in her toolbox that make her hard to scout and contain.”
Enna Corley‘s game is smooth and aggressive. The intensity of her play can be mesmerizing. Her traveling across country for club play reflects a desire to play against better competition; BIC‘s remarks about a ”huge leap” suggest that the improved competition has enhanced her skills.
UNC alums Emily Nalls and Katie Thompson played club lacrosse for Hero’s.
EDIT: Enna Corley was also selected to the USA U17 Youth National team; in fact, I believe hers is the cover photo on the announcement of the team (see post above).
A listing of the top 10 players in the class of 2027 almost certainly includes Enna Corley, a Californian (Marlborough School, L.A.) who comes across country to play club lacrosse for Hero’s Green 2027. Rated a 5 by Best-in-Class, she is described as an “Initiator - players whom (sic) we see having a strong ability to create and get to the cage or start an offense.” (It seems to me that BIC categories “Initiators‘ and “2 Way Middies” are the most versatile BIC classifications; Chloe Humphrey and Jamie Ortega are Initiators).
Here is BIC’s write-up on Corley:
“Corley has flash and substance. She has great stick-work and is creative. She showed great IQ and was versatile with and without the ball. She's shown her ability to score off the dodge, but also made a huge leap in her off-ball play. Her 2 handedness gives her an edge when initiating. She dodges to score, but makes great decisions when the slide comes. Her energy on the field is infectious.”
In scoring her performance a 90, Inside Lacrosse made EC a headliner in its BIC article “Corley, Davis, Kitchel Lead Standouts at 2027 Best in Class Event:”
“Undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the class, Corley is quick and smart with a powerful shot and elite stick skills. She has a plethora of dodges in her toolbox that make her hard to scout and contain.”
Enna Corley‘s game is smooth and aggressive. The intensity of her play can be mesmerizing. Her traveling across country for club play reflects a desire to play against better competition; BIC‘s remarks about a ”huge leap” suggest that the improved competition has enhanced her skills.
UNC alums Emily Nalls and Katie Thompson played club lacrosse for Hero’s.
EDIT: Enna Corley was also selected to the USA U17 Youth National team; in fact, I believe hers is the cover photo on the announcement of the team (see post above).
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Shea Shoulberg (STEPS 2027 Navy)
Shea Shoulberg plays for Mendham HS (NJ) and her club affiliation is with STEPS; the Messenger sisters who played for UNC were from the Mendham area. She was one of three BIC quarterback standouts in June (BIC- “players that we see having the ability to command and facilitate an offense.”) Graded a 4 at BIC, her BIC write-up states:
“Shoulberg, being a lefty, could fit in the lefty bucket, but I think her value shows in the quarterbacking role. She can facilitate off the dodge on that low left wing, but she's always looking to feed teammates and play with her head up. When you think of someone who just made a killing off the low lefty wing slot for the past few years in the NCAA, you think of Mckenna Davis. Shea can certainly become that elite level feeder. She's the type of competitor that will continue to expand her arsenal and is a player that a coach can build an attacking unit around.”
In addition to being left-handed, Shoulberg is 5’10“, giving her the advantage of being able to see over defenses.
She was graded a 91 by Inside Lacrosse (second in the class of 2027):
“Shoulberg brings ample amount of value on the offensive end. As a lefty attacker her feeding game gives her standout notoriety, however she is far from one dimensional. Shouldberg have a strong 1v1 game, and a high IQ.”
Shea Shoulberg’s enthusiasm for the game of lacrosse is infectious (she also plays soccer). She reminds me a little bit of UNC great, Katie Hoeg. She lists another UNC great, Ally Mastroianni , as a reference in her video library. (IMO, her most recent videos posted @ IWLCA are among the most polished of 2027 players.)
Shea Shoulberg plays for Mendham HS (NJ) and her club affiliation is with STEPS; the Messenger sisters who played for UNC were from the Mendham area. She was one of three BIC quarterback standouts in June (BIC- “players that we see having the ability to command and facilitate an offense.”) Graded a 4 at BIC, her BIC write-up states:
“Shoulberg, being a lefty, could fit in the lefty bucket, but I think her value shows in the quarterbacking role. She can facilitate off the dodge on that low left wing, but she's always looking to feed teammates and play with her head up. When you think of someone who just made a killing off the low lefty wing slot for the past few years in the NCAA, you think of Mckenna Davis. Shea can certainly become that elite level feeder. She's the type of competitor that will continue to expand her arsenal and is a player that a coach can build an attacking unit around.”
In addition to being left-handed, Shoulberg is 5’10“, giving her the advantage of being able to see over defenses.
She was graded a 91 by Inside Lacrosse (second in the class of 2027):
“Shoulberg brings ample amount of value on the offensive end. As a lefty attacker her feeding game gives her standout notoriety, however she is far from one dimensional. Shouldberg have a strong 1v1 game, and a high IQ.”
Shea Shoulberg’s enthusiasm for the game of lacrosse is infectious (she also plays soccer). She reminds me a little bit of UNC great, Katie Hoeg. She lists another UNC great, Ally Mastroianni , as a reference in her video library. (IMO, her most recent videos posted @ IWLCA are among the most polished of 2027 players.)
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Inside Lacrosse has issued its Power 100 for the class of 2025 incoming freshmen. UNC has 9 players on the 100-player list, including six 5-stars (top 30) and another three 4-stars. While Clemson has the top 2 ranked players, UNC‘s six 5-stars and 9 ranked players lead all schools.
4. Grace Winkler (CT)
10. Mairyn Dwyer (PA)
13. Reese King (NY)
18. Gabby Lauretani (CT)
23. Emma Connerty (MA)
26. Sophia Stoltz (MD)
50. Payton Magday (MD)
51-100 unranked, alphabetical listing:
Audrey Hurleman (PA)
Charlotte Rathjen (NY)
Here’s the IL article:
Twenty-one (21) of the thirty (30) 5-stars are going to ACC schools:
UNC 6
Clemson 4
Notre Dame 4
Stanford 3
Boston College 2
Syracuse 1
dook 1
4. Grace Winkler (CT)
10. Mairyn Dwyer (PA)
13. Reese King (NY)
18. Gabby Lauretani (CT)
23. Emma Connerty (MA)
26. Sophia Stoltz (MD)
50. Payton Magday (MD)
51-100 unranked, alphabetical listing:
Audrey Hurleman (PA)
Charlotte Rathjen (NY)
Here’s the IL article:
Twenty-one (21) of the thirty (30) 5-stars are going to ACC schools:
UNC 6
Clemson 4
Notre Dame 4
Stanford 3
Boston College 2
Syracuse 1
dook 1
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Thanks for the tremendous job that you do airball. Your information is very detailed and thorough. Thanks for all that you do. You efforts are greatly appreciated; especially by me.
USA Lacrosse Magazine has posted an article on the 2027 class of recruits. The initial portion is an interview with Riley Davis, the presumptive top-ranked player in the class. This is followed by sketches of 11 additional class members:
www.usalacrosse.com
Top Class of 2027 Girls' Lacrosse Prospects Ahead of Sept. 1
Riley Davis isn’t writing off a future in college basketball. She’s just delaying it to be a top lacrosse recruit in the 2027 class.
www.usalacrosse.com
One to watch..important detail there was the fact the her first and only camp was UNC's. Usually a good indicator of a recruit's interest (Camps for top programs ain't cheap) so they have to be selective about which ones they attend. Almost every single one of UNC's committs since ever have attended a UNC lacrosse camp.USA Lacrosse Magazine has posted an article on the 2027 class of recruits. The initial portion is an interview with Riley Davis, the presumptive top-ranked player in the class. This is followed by sketches of 11 additional class members:
Top Class of 2027 Girls' Lacrosse Prospects Ahead of Sept. 1
Riley Davis isn’t writing off a future in college basketball. She’s just delaying it to be a top lacrosse recruit in the 2027 class.
i think UNC lands either Davis or Corley. Corley the most likely. Landing both is still possible
Yes, I noted the reference to Davis attending the UNC camp -- there is certainly interest.
I think there are quite a few players interested in Carolina. By my calculation there could be as many as 14 subtractions from UNC’s 2025 roster (net -12 with grad transfers), but I can't imagine the Heels taking a large class.
UNC's sophomore class is very magnetic and will undoubtedly attract recruits. And they will be seniors when the 2027s arrive on campus.
It will be interesting.
I think there are quite a few players interested in Carolina. By my calculation there could be as many as 14 subtractions from UNC’s 2025 roster (net -12 with grad transfers), but I can't imagine the Heels taking a large class.
UNC's sophomore class is very magnetic and will undoubtedly attract recruits. And they will be seniors when the 2027s arrive on campus.
It will be interesting.
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CLASS OF 2027 GOALIES
The Class of 2027 has been recognized as having a strong class of goalies. Carolina has recruited a goalie in each of the past four classes. Current goalies Betty Nelson and Lexie Zenk will be seniors playing their final seasons when the class of ‘27 arrives in Chapel Hill. Therefore it makes sense to me that this Tar Heel class would include a goalie, especially because the goalie talent pool in the 2027 class is so deep. Each of the three goalies, below, received a 5-evaluation at Best-in-Class.
JESSICA McKELVEY plays high school lacrosse at Hillsborough, NJ in Central New Jersey and club lacrosse for Triple Threat Elite. Here’s what BIC had to say about her performance in July:
“Jess is a goalie who you cannot help but appreciate the athleticism she brings to the position. You can never count her out of any play and you won't want to look away as you may miss a highlight reel save. She has the ability to change a course of a game when she stands on her head. Her stance is strong and balanced. Her movements are efficient and insanely quick. She is never not in the correct position, baiting shooters when she wants and playing it honest. One coach noticed too how she is celebrating every goal with her teammates. Simply put she put on an absolute show for us to watch and it was pleasure.”
Inside Lacrosse graded Jessia McKelvey a 90 in evaluation her play at BIC:
”Arguably one of the best keepers in the class, McKelvey is the total package. She plays quick and fearless, reading the shot well from any distance. She wows the crowd with momentum-making saves.”
MIA BROWN plays high school lacrosse at Westhamption on Long Island. She was a teammate of incoming UNC freshman A/M Reese King. Her club lacrosse is with LI Top Guns, where UNC redshirt sophomores GraceAnn Leonard and Eva Ingrilli. Comments at BIC:
”Mia is a fiery competitor. She truly brings out the best in those playing in front of her and plays with so much confidence in net. She plays bigger than her size and isn’t afraid to take away angles when shooters are in tight. She has quick hands and has speed. A great ball stopper but can also handle the ball outside the crease. She pushes the pace with the clears while also being smart with the ball. Mia doesn’t back down from any shooter from anywhere on the field and dictates where she wants shooters to shoot.”
Inside Lacrosse had these comments about Mia Brown’s play:
”Although small in stature, Brown plays big in cage. Fundamentally sound and technically proficient, she explodes to the ball on a high shot and covers quick on low attempts. That quickness allows her to make a play on the ball outside of the cage but doesn’t factor into a rushed clear—where Brown is steady and patient.” [She was not evaluated by IL at BIC]
MACYN CALLAHAN plays high school lacrosse at New Canaan CT, where current Tar Heel Kayleigh Harden played. Her club team is Gold Coast. The BIC evaluators said:
”Throughout the two days, Macyn continued to turns heads. She had multiple back to back point blank saves. Her ability to reset after making a save is something way above her age. She is able to quickly reset whether the shot was a save or a goal, and gets back in her ready athletic position. She was constantly seeking feedback related to different looks she saw in her game. She always looks loose in the cage, and is ready to attack the play in front of her. Callahan erupted at BIC in what was an insane goalie class overall.”
Inside Lacrosse‘s evaluation of Macy’s at BIC was an 88:
”Callahan in one word: quick. In a series of three saves the keeper used her body and stick to deny all three attempts of the offense trying to put the ball away. She does not rest until the play is completely over, showing her stamina, focus and IQ.”
North Carolina has historically recruited quick goalies. All three of these players provide this.
The Class of 2027 has been recognized as having a strong class of goalies. Carolina has recruited a goalie in each of the past four classes. Current goalies Betty Nelson and Lexie Zenk will be seniors playing their final seasons when the class of ‘27 arrives in Chapel Hill. Therefore it makes sense to me that this Tar Heel class would include a goalie, especially because the goalie talent pool in the 2027 class is so deep. Each of the three goalies, below, received a 5-evaluation at Best-in-Class.
JESSICA McKELVEY plays high school lacrosse at Hillsborough, NJ in Central New Jersey and club lacrosse for Triple Threat Elite. Here’s what BIC had to say about her performance in July:
“Jess is a goalie who you cannot help but appreciate the athleticism she brings to the position. You can never count her out of any play and you won't want to look away as you may miss a highlight reel save. She has the ability to change a course of a game when she stands on her head. Her stance is strong and balanced. Her movements are efficient and insanely quick. She is never not in the correct position, baiting shooters when she wants and playing it honest. One coach noticed too how she is celebrating every goal with her teammates. Simply put she put on an absolute show for us to watch and it was pleasure.”
Inside Lacrosse graded Jessia McKelvey a 90 in evaluation her play at BIC:
”Arguably one of the best keepers in the class, McKelvey is the total package. She plays quick and fearless, reading the shot well from any distance. She wows the crowd with momentum-making saves.”
MIA BROWN plays high school lacrosse at Westhamption on Long Island. She was a teammate of incoming UNC freshman A/M Reese King. Her club lacrosse is with LI Top Guns, where UNC redshirt sophomores GraceAnn Leonard and Eva Ingrilli. Comments at BIC:
”Mia is a fiery competitor. She truly brings out the best in those playing in front of her and plays with so much confidence in net. She plays bigger than her size and isn’t afraid to take away angles when shooters are in tight. She has quick hands and has speed. A great ball stopper but can also handle the ball outside the crease. She pushes the pace with the clears while also being smart with the ball. Mia doesn’t back down from any shooter from anywhere on the field and dictates where she wants shooters to shoot.”
Inside Lacrosse had these comments about Mia Brown’s play:
”Although small in stature, Brown plays big in cage. Fundamentally sound and technically proficient, she explodes to the ball on a high shot and covers quick on low attempts. That quickness allows her to make a play on the ball outside of the cage but doesn’t factor into a rushed clear—where Brown is steady and patient.” [She was not evaluated by IL at BIC]
MACYN CALLAHAN plays high school lacrosse at New Canaan CT, where current Tar Heel Kayleigh Harden played. Her club team is Gold Coast. The BIC evaluators said:
”Throughout the two days, Macyn continued to turns heads. She had multiple back to back point blank saves. Her ability to reset after making a save is something way above her age. She is able to quickly reset whether the shot was a save or a goal, and gets back in her ready athletic position. She was constantly seeking feedback related to different looks she saw in her game. She always looks loose in the cage, and is ready to attack the play in front of her. Callahan erupted at BIC in what was an insane goalie class overall.”
Inside Lacrosse‘s evaluation of Macy’s at BIC was an 88:
”Callahan in one word: quick. In a series of three saves the keeper used her body and stick to deny all three attempts of the offense trying to put the ball away. She does not rest until the play is completely over, showing her stamina, focus and IQ.”
North Carolina has historically recruited quick goalies. All three of these players provide this.
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Notes on a couple of other members of the class of 2027, which begins its recruiting cycle starting next Monday, September 1. Both of these players played club lacrosse with the LI Yellow Jackets.
Madison Herr (LI Yellow Jackets 2027)
Best-in-Class graded two–way midfielder Madison Herr a ‘5’ with these insights:
“Herr is elite in the 30's, has great vision, and plays relentlessly. She has elite speed, but offers way more than just that. Madison can do anything asked of her, and is extremely athletic. She beat girls on the elbow with ease. She drives with her head up. She's the type of player that can go coast to coast, which she did on a few occasions. Once, she got ball off the circle, ran and tested her girl 1v1, and had a great feed to the crease for an assist. On another situation, she had a strong a CT to a fastbreak goal. Herr will be highly coveted. Her between the 30s play and versatility reminds me of former Yellow Jacket Kerrigan Miller.”
(Kerrigan Miller played a grad year at UNC in 2021 and was a grad assistant for a year: she was rated the #1 player in her high school class.)
IL‘s evaluation of Madison Herr prior to her senior year was an 85; the comments were:
“Hustle and groundballs with a good field sense, Herr is a speedster who could turn on the jets in a blink of an eye all spring at SWR, and continued that into the fall at the IDX.”
Madison Herr attends Shoreham Wading River HS on Long Island, which is the Alma Mater of current UNC RS-Soph GraceAnn Leonard. UNC has a long-standing relationship with the LI Yellow Jackets — current UNC players who played for the Yellow Jackets are senior Ella Cabrera, sophomore Lexie Zenk and RS-Freshman Tess Calabria.
Dylan McNamera (LI Yellow Jackets 2027)
Left-handed midfielder Dylan McNamera is a teammate of 2026 Carolina commit, Sophia Buffardi, at Sayville High School on Long Island. She was graded a ‘5’ at Best-in-Class, which provided these comments about Dylan’s play:
“McNamara lets the game come to her. When she gets her dodges, she takes advantage, winning a few 1v1 matchups and scoring from range. She is strong on D, finishes well in tight, and makes a ton of hidden plays for her teammates. She will be another coveted lefty in this class especially due to her versatility.”
Dylan McNamera plays club lacrosse with the LI Yellow Jackets, as does her high school teammate Sophia Buffardi.
Madison Herr (LI Yellow Jackets 2027)
Best-in-Class graded two–way midfielder Madison Herr a ‘5’ with these insights:
“Herr is elite in the 30's, has great vision, and plays relentlessly. She has elite speed, but offers way more than just that. Madison can do anything asked of her, and is extremely athletic. She beat girls on the elbow with ease. She drives with her head up. She's the type of player that can go coast to coast, which she did on a few occasions. Once, she got ball off the circle, ran and tested her girl 1v1, and had a great feed to the crease for an assist. On another situation, she had a strong a CT to a fastbreak goal. Herr will be highly coveted. Her between the 30s play and versatility reminds me of former Yellow Jacket Kerrigan Miller.”
(Kerrigan Miller played a grad year at UNC in 2021 and was a grad assistant for a year: she was rated the #1 player in her high school class.)
IL‘s evaluation of Madison Herr prior to her senior year was an 85; the comments were:
“Hustle and groundballs with a good field sense, Herr is a speedster who could turn on the jets in a blink of an eye all spring at SWR, and continued that into the fall at the IDX.”
Madison Herr attends Shoreham Wading River HS on Long Island, which is the Alma Mater of current UNC RS-Soph GraceAnn Leonard. UNC has a long-standing relationship with the LI Yellow Jackets — current UNC players who played for the Yellow Jackets are senior Ella Cabrera, sophomore Lexie Zenk and RS-Freshman Tess Calabria.
Dylan McNamera (LI Yellow Jackets 2027)
Left-handed midfielder Dylan McNamera is a teammate of 2026 Carolina commit, Sophia Buffardi, at Sayville High School on Long Island. She was graded a ‘5’ at Best-in-Class, which provided these comments about Dylan’s play:
“McNamara lets the game come to her. When she gets her dodges, she takes advantage, winning a few 1v1 matchups and scoring from range. She is strong on D, finishes well in tight, and makes a ton of hidden plays for her teammates. She will be another coveted lefty in this class especially due to her versatility.”
Dylan McNamera plays club lacrosse with the LI Yellow Jackets, as does her high school teammate Sophia Buffardi.
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I am not sure how much interest there will be in this article from USA Lacrosse Magazine. It’s about Marissa White’s decision to transfer to Boston College. Essentially, I think it’s fair to say that she wanted to be a bigger fish. Coach Walker-Weinstein indicates that BC is going to expand Marissa’s roles. FWIW. Best of luck to Marissa.
www.usalacrosse.com
Marissa White’s 11th-Hour Decision to Flip from North Carolina to Boston College
White entered the transfer portal on deadline day. The now-former Tar Heel heads into once-rival territory at Boston College.
www.usalacrosse.com
I think it was a combination of two things. She wanted a bigger role which I do understand, but also I think she was scared of the competition that was coming. She knew she was going to have to the battle AP, and those talented freshmen coming in for her starting spot. We know that AP, Corkins, EI, TC, etc. was going to bring the heat. To be honest, AP almost had as many goals as she did last year with way less playing time. We are going to be loaded and taller this year. Reese King won the MVP award and that group is going to be good.
Here is Inside Lacrosse's initial designation of 5-star players from the class of 2027. Over the past few years, IL has given a 5-star rating to 30 players/class each year. Today's list includes 43 players. This is interesting because the scuttlebutt on FanLax has been that the 2027 class has strong goalies but its field players are not as talented as previous classes (I don't have a sufficient familiarity with the players personally to make a competent evaluation). FWIW, here is the article:
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Yesterday, IL provided a list of 72 players that they have ranked as 4-star talents.
Apparently more 4- and 5-star players will be designated, depending "on how the class shakes out."
Apparently more 4- and 5-star players will be designated, depending "on how the class shakes out."
Inside Lacrosse has published its class of 2027 pre-recruitment top 50. As the consensus speculated, Riley Davis (PA) is rated as #1 in the class. Giana Bigelow (CO) and Ryan Rodgers (MA) are #2-3. FWIW, sketches of these three are outlined in posts, above.
Active recruitment of these players, rising high school juniors, begins next week. Here are IL’s top 50 (43 x 5-stars and 7 x 4-stars):
2. Giana Bigelow, A, Team 180, Valor (Colo.)
3. Ryan Rodgers, A, M&D, Deerfield (Mass.)
4. Avery Fordham, M, Aces, Penfield (N.Y.)
5. Jessica McKelvey, G, Triple Threat, Hillsborough (N.J.)
6. Cecilia Evans, D/M, M&D, Laxachusetts, Dexter Southfield (Mass.)
7. Allie Pisano, A, Aces Elite, Victor (N.Y.)
8. Kelsey Young, M, Philly Blast, Anges Irwin (Pa.)
9. Emma Switter, M, Florida Select, American Heritage Delray (Fla.)
10. Regan O’Connor, D, LI Yellow Jackets, Farmingdale (N.Y.)
11. Maya Torgalkar, M, Prime Time, Rye (N.Y.)
12. Shea Shoulberg, A, STEPS NJ, Mendham (N.J.)
13. Piper Dalsemer, G, Alliance National, Mira Costa (Calif.)
14. Madison Herr, M, LI Yellow Jackets, Shoreham-Wading River (N.Y.)
15. Mary Clare Ebeling, A, Prime Time, Rye (N.Y.)
16. Macyn Callahan, G, Gold Coast, New Canaan (Conn.)
17. Taylor Fique, M, M&D, Manchester Valley (Md.)
18. Quinlan Heilbron, D, LI Yellow Jackets, Ward Melville (N.Y.)
19. Enna Corley, A, Hero’s, Marlborough (Calif.)
20. Fiona Duncheskie, M, Philly Blast, Bishop Shanahan (Pa.)
21. Isabella Virtue, M, Florida Select, St. Andrew’s (Fla.)
22. Saia Hansra, M, Alliance, Centennial Secondary (B.C.)
23. Mia DeFalco, D, Capital, St. Stephen's & St. Agnes (Va.)
24. Maeve Shanahan, A, Monster, Our Lady of Mercy (N.Y.)
25. Olivia Brady, M, LI Yellow Jackets, Bayport Blue Point (N.Y.)
26. Chloe Cassidy, A/M, M&D, Stone Ridge (Va.)
27. Mia Brown, G, LI Top Guns, Westhampton (N.Y.)
28. Sophia Graham, M, Aces, Cicero North Syracuse (N.Y.)
29. Presley Upton, M, Mass Elite, Noble & Greenough (Mass.)
30. Charlotte Vanni, M, NXT, Tower Hill (Del.)
31. Kendall Carfine, D, Heros, Maryvale (Md.)
32. Raegan Lawton, M, Tomahawks, Portsmouth (N.H.)
33. Allie Reasoner, M, LI Jesters, Sacred Heart Academy (N.Y.)
34. Byers Martin, M, M&D, St. Paul’s (Md.)
35. Alli Denzel, A, NXT, Southern Lehigh (Pa.)
36. Corey Kumin, A, Mass Elite, Noble & Greenough (Mass.)
37. Emily Ciesinski, G, Salt City Snipers, Niskayuna (N.Y.)
38. Dylan McNamara, A, LI Yellow Jackets, Sayville (N.Y.)
39. Ally Phelan, M, Gold Coast, Wilton (Conn.)
40. Kinsley Pittler, D, M&D, St. Paul's (Md.)
41. Ella Avery, D, Alliance, Carlsbad (Calif.)
42. Braelyn Swanick, D, EagleStix, Milton (Ga.)
43. Brea Barker, G, Laxachusetts, Governor’s (Mass.)
45. Savannah Higgins, A, Eagle Stix, Wesleyan School (Ga.)
46. Torunn Spencer, G, M&D, Dulaney (Md.)
47. Bella Fiorelli, A, LI Jesters, Walt Whitman (N.Y.)
48. Sarah Lim, M, Hero’s, St. Paul’s (Md.)
49. Kayla Cellucci, D, NXT, Villa Maria (Pa.)
50. Chloe Kelly, M/A, STEPS NJ, Rumson Fair Haven (N.J.)
Active recruitment of these players, rising high school juniors, begins next week. Here are IL’s top 50 (43 x 5-stars and 7 x 4-stars):
Nike/ILWomen Class of 2027 Top 50 Rankings
5-Stars
1. Riley Davis, M, HHH Philly, Notre Dame de Namur (Pa.)2. Giana Bigelow, A, Team 180, Valor (Colo.)
3. Ryan Rodgers, A, M&D, Deerfield (Mass.)
4. Avery Fordham, M, Aces, Penfield (N.Y.)
5. Jessica McKelvey, G, Triple Threat, Hillsborough (N.J.)
6. Cecilia Evans, D/M, M&D, Laxachusetts, Dexter Southfield (Mass.)
7. Allie Pisano, A, Aces Elite, Victor (N.Y.)
8. Kelsey Young, M, Philly Blast, Anges Irwin (Pa.)
9. Emma Switter, M, Florida Select, American Heritage Delray (Fla.)
10. Regan O’Connor, D, LI Yellow Jackets, Farmingdale (N.Y.)
11. Maya Torgalkar, M, Prime Time, Rye (N.Y.)
12. Shea Shoulberg, A, STEPS NJ, Mendham (N.J.)
13. Piper Dalsemer, G, Alliance National, Mira Costa (Calif.)
14. Madison Herr, M, LI Yellow Jackets, Shoreham-Wading River (N.Y.)
15. Mary Clare Ebeling, A, Prime Time, Rye (N.Y.)
16. Macyn Callahan, G, Gold Coast, New Canaan (Conn.)
17. Taylor Fique, M, M&D, Manchester Valley (Md.)
18. Quinlan Heilbron, D, LI Yellow Jackets, Ward Melville (N.Y.)
19. Enna Corley, A, Hero’s, Marlborough (Calif.)
20. Fiona Duncheskie, M, Philly Blast, Bishop Shanahan (Pa.)
21. Isabella Virtue, M, Florida Select, St. Andrew’s (Fla.)
22. Saia Hansra, M, Alliance, Centennial Secondary (B.C.)
23. Mia DeFalco, D, Capital, St. Stephen's & St. Agnes (Va.)
24. Maeve Shanahan, A, Monster, Our Lady of Mercy (N.Y.)
25. Olivia Brady, M, LI Yellow Jackets, Bayport Blue Point (N.Y.)
26. Chloe Cassidy, A/M, M&D, Stone Ridge (Va.)
27. Mia Brown, G, LI Top Guns, Westhampton (N.Y.)
28. Sophia Graham, M, Aces, Cicero North Syracuse (N.Y.)
29. Presley Upton, M, Mass Elite, Noble & Greenough (Mass.)
30. Charlotte Vanni, M, NXT, Tower Hill (Del.)
31. Kendall Carfine, D, Heros, Maryvale (Md.)
32. Raegan Lawton, M, Tomahawks, Portsmouth (N.H.)
33. Allie Reasoner, M, LI Jesters, Sacred Heart Academy (N.Y.)
34. Byers Martin, M, M&D, St. Paul’s (Md.)
35. Alli Denzel, A, NXT, Southern Lehigh (Pa.)
36. Corey Kumin, A, Mass Elite, Noble & Greenough (Mass.)
37. Emily Ciesinski, G, Salt City Snipers, Niskayuna (N.Y.)
38. Dylan McNamara, A, LI Yellow Jackets, Sayville (N.Y.)
39. Ally Phelan, M, Gold Coast, Wilton (Conn.)
40. Kinsley Pittler, D, M&D, St. Paul's (Md.)
41. Ella Avery, D, Alliance, Carlsbad (Calif.)
42. Braelyn Swanick, D, EagleStix, Milton (Ga.)
43. Brea Barker, G, Laxachusetts, Governor’s (Mass.)
4-Stars
44. Jenna Obloj, M, LI Jesters, West Islip (N.Y.)45. Savannah Higgins, A, Eagle Stix, Wesleyan School (Ga.)
46. Torunn Spencer, G, M&D, Dulaney (Md.)
47. Bella Fiorelli, A, LI Jesters, Walt Whitman (N.Y.)
48. Sarah Lim, M, Hero’s, St. Paul’s (Md.)
49. Kayla Cellucci, D, NXT, Villa Maria (Pa.)
50. Chloe Kelly, M/A, STEPS NJ, Rumson Fair Haven (N.J.)
Here are sketches from Best-in-Class of other players in the Nike/IL top 10:
#4 Avery Fordham:
“Fordham is an elite athlete. She's going to be highly coveted. While she didn't stand out as much offensively at this BIC, but her athleticism, speed and compete did and she made a ton of small, gritty plays. Fordham's a great example of why we created this bucket - we all know how valuable this part of the field is to success at the college level.“
Avery plays for Penfield HS, which won a 2025 state championship in New York. She plays club lacrosse for Aces Elite. UNC 2026 commits CeCe Powell and Elizabeth Smith play for Aces.
#5 Cecelia Evans
Evans has instincts and compete you cannot teach. She's fast, athletic, and has great size. True 2 way mid, she was all over the field in a good way. She constantly turns heads by making different plays. Gritty is the right word for Cecilia - she's strong on the draw, and came up with what felt like every GB. She tracked down a player all the way across the field, and played her angles to turn her back. She battles all over the field. She draws comparisons to recent BIC Standout Maria Bragg (2026, Florida). Evans will be fun to watch going forward.
#4 Avery Fordham:
“Fordham is an elite athlete. She's going to be highly coveted. While she didn't stand out as much offensively at this BIC, but her athleticism, speed and compete did and she made a ton of small, gritty plays. Fordham's a great example of why we created this bucket - we all know how valuable this part of the field is to success at the college level.“
Avery plays for Penfield HS, which won a 2025 state championship in New York. She plays club lacrosse for Aces Elite. UNC 2026 commits CeCe Powell and Elizabeth Smith play for Aces.
#5 Cecelia Evans
Evans has instincts and compete you cannot teach. She's fast, athletic, and has great size. True 2 way mid, she was all over the field in a good way. She constantly turns heads by making different plays. Gritty is the right word for Cecilia - she's strong on the draw, and came up with what felt like every GB. She tracked down a player all the way across the field, and played her angles to turn her back. She battles all over the field. She draws comparisons to recent BIC Standout Maria Bragg (2026, Florida). Evans will be fun to watch going forward.
Here is the lead-in paragraph from an article reposted on Fanlax.com about an ndowment to the UVa women’s lacrosse program:
”CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia Athletics and the Virginia Athletics Foundation (VAF) announced today (Aug 27) a transformative $3 million anonymous gift to endow scholarships for the UVA Women’s Lacrosse program. With the University’s Bicentennial Scholarship Fund providing a 50% match, the total impact of this historic commitment reaches an extraordinary $4.5 million.”
The article Is lengthy so I won’t post it in its entirety, but it goes on to say that the endowment will provide approximately three scholarships/year.
”CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Virginia Athletics and the Virginia Athletics Foundation (VAF) announced today (Aug 27) a transformative $3 million anonymous gift to endow scholarships for the UVA Women’s Lacrosse program. With the University’s Bicentennial Scholarship Fund providing a 50% match, the total impact of this historic commitment reaches an extraordinary $4.5 million.”
The article Is lengthy so I won’t post it in its entirety, but it goes on to say that the endowment will provide approximately three scholarships/year.
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The No. 50 recruit is Chloe Kelly, sister of current junior Paige Kelly and graduate Claudia Kelly. We could very well get her
Today was the opening day of the recruitment of the high school class of 2027. No UNC commitments today, but there were no first day commitments in either of the last two classes.
In the class of 2025, the first commitment came when Sophie Stoltz committed on Sep. 6.
As for the class of 2026, there were three commitments the first week — CeCe Powell and Elizabeth Smith on Sep. 2 and Emma McCarthy on Sep. 4.
(This info is gleaned from Girls’ Recruiting on IL-Women.)
Go Heels!
In the class of 2025, the first commitment came when Sophie Stoltz committed on Sep. 6.
As for the class of 2026, there were three commitments the first week — CeCe Powell and Elizabeth Smith on Sep. 2 and Emma McCarthy on Sep. 4.
(This info is gleaned from Girls’ Recruiting on IL-Women.)
Go Heels!