Four-year, dual-sport, varsity athlete Rory Malia is continuing her lacrosse career at Denison
University. As a double-sport athlete, sports have been a huge part of Rory’s life, which made her decision to play a sport in college pretty easy.
Going into the decision process, Rory knew that she either wanted to play at a Division I or a Division III school. As soon as Rory was able to talk to coaches, she went to camps and visited many different schools and talked to many different coaches. After considering all of her options and offers, she decided that Denison was the best fit for her. Rory was originally attracted to Denison for its great academics as well as its great Lacrosse program.
“When I visited, I loved the community, and I was looking for a school of strong academics and also a strong lacrosse program. Also, when I went there, it seemed like they had a lot of
assistance to help you out if you needed, and the people there were super welcoming every time I went,” said Malia.
Lacrosse was introduced to Malia when she was young, playing for EYLA. At 10 years old, she met Coach Annie Lesch. Lesch was the EYLA coach and is now a volunteer varsity coach. Malia believes that Lesch has helped her significantly through her lacrosse career.
“Annies been my coach since the day I started, the day I picked up my stick. She is also someone who will call you out if you do bad, but also support you if you do good,” commented
Malia.
Along with Coach Lesch, Head Coach Sarah McKenna, and Assistant Coach Shannon Smith have supported Rory with her skills and mentality.
“They’ve mainly taught me patience with myself and how to become a stronger, better player,
and how to use my strengths in the best ways possible and in ways I didn’t know before. Also, they continue in supporting me, no matter what.”
Like many high school sports teaches you a lot. Malia believes that she is ready to
play at the next level due to the preparation of playing two high school sports.
“It [Lacrosse at ETHS] has definitely taught me about time management and work ethic, and how you have to work hard to be able to, earn a spot on the team that you play for. Also, being able to deal with school, time, stress, and lacrosse all at the same time,” says Malia.
Although Rory will miss her coaches, teammates, and the community at ETHS, she is excited for her next step. Malia has made so many great memories, like winning sectionals and beating Lake Forest her junior season. Malia will be majoring in Health, Exercise, and Sports Studies.
