Katie Bourque: A Reflection of a Senior Season Lost

Playing at Dartmouth was always my goal. I don't think I ever really considered other options. My father played football and lacrosse for the Big Green and I was determined to carry on the family tradition. I can still remember the day I committed to play lacrosse for Dartmouth, it was one of my proudest moments. Although I was fully aware of the incredible opportunity before me, I really had no idea just how much Dartmouth would impact my life.

Playing in a conference with as much history as the Ivy League is unique. The energy in the locker room before an Ivy game is just different. No matter how you stack up in the rankings, any team can win and we all know that. It always comes down to, "who wants it more?" You prepare all year thinking about the moment you will take the field against another Ivy. From workouts alone in the summer, to playing through a snowstorm in the middle of January, all of your hard work is put to the test during those seven games in the spring.

You really have to love the game to put in the time and effort needed for college sports. I think for this particular team, this year, we loved so much more than our sport. We loved each other. I find comfort in knowing that no matter what, no one can take away the family that Dartmouth Women's Lacrosse has given me.

"I would rather have five games with this team, than a whole season with anyone else."

One of my teammates and best friends, Sophia Turchetta, said this recently and I think it really puts into words what this year's team has meant to us. The team chemistry that we had this year was unparalleled. Even though the season was taken from us far too soon, we were able to prove how much grit and talent we had in those five games.

We were sitting in the locker room after a Wednesday practice when we learned that it would be our last of the season. I sat there in disbelief for a long time, nothing felt real. I still haven't fully accepted the fact that I will never put on my Dartmouth jersey again.

"The only thing worse than losing is not playing."

I'm glad I never knew how true this quote could be until now. There truly is nothing worse than not playing, but the crazy thing about this is that the 2020 team of Dartmouth Women's Lacrosse is not alone. My heart goes out to every athlete that had their season cut short this year, especially the seniors.

While these are unprecedented circumstances, we are all in this together. I am eternally grateful for everything this program has given me, but most of all I am grateful for my teammates that made this ride so special.

"Up Up Big Green on 2."

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