Hamilton Women's Lacrosse Wins 12th Academic Honor in 13 Years

Balancing practices, games, and academics isn't easy, but Hamilton College's women's lacrosse team just proved they're masters at both.

The Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association named the Continentals an Academic Honor Squad for maintaining a team GPA of 3.2 or better throughout the 2025-26 academic year. This marks the 12th time in 13 years the team has achieved this distinction under Head Coach Kaillie Kelly.

The recognition doesn't stop at the team level. Eight Hamilton players earned spots on the Division III Academic Honor Roll, which requires a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and junior or senior standing.

Three seniors returned to the honor roll for another year: Sydney Klepper from Ramsey, New Jersey, Maddigan Leifer from Shelton, Connecticut, and Kat Showalter from Los Altos, California. Five juniors joined them this year, including goalkeeper Eliza Schwarz and midfielder Kristin Vosswinkel.

These student-athletes aren't just hitting the books between games. They're excelling in the classroom while competing in one of the fastest-growing college sports in America.

Why This Inspires

Hamilton's consistent academic success shows that excellence in one area doesn't mean sacrificing another. These young women are building habits that will serve them long after their final game: time management, discipline, and the drive to succeed even when things get tough.

Their achievement also reflects strong leadership from Coach Kelly, herself a Hamilton graduate. She's created a culture where academic success matters just as much as what happens on the field.

For young athletes watching from high school, this team proves you don't have to choose between your sport and your education. You can pursue both with passion and come out winning on every front.