Melissa Perry a Solid Stopper for Somers

girls lacrosse goalie Melissa Perry, a senior, has been in the net for the Spartans since her sophomore year but hasn't forgotten what it's like to be a young goalkeeper.

Perry, who as a junior was named to the CT Super Junior team and has a save percentage of 50 percent, is a captain this year and has given her time to help instruct new and less experienced players.

Coach Elaine Kuczaraski says that Perry sets a good example by her commitment to the sport.

"She attends practice and works very hard," she said. "She is a captain this year, is very comitted to the team, and has great leadership skills."

According to Kuczarski, Perry hopes to continue playing lacrosse in college.

More about Melissa Perry

1. When did you start playing lacrosse? What got you started? 

I started playing in elementary school, I believe fifth grade. A lot of my friends were playing which pretty much was my motivation to start. I grew to love the sport which explains why I've never stopped playing. I mean what is Somers without the sports programs - especially lacrosse? It's great to be a part of it all. 

2. What is your favorite lacrosse moment? 

I find that to be such a hard question to answer to tell you the truth. I think I could narrow it down to two though, winning 10-9 against Granby and making the Super junior team. Sophomore year, about a minute and twenty-seven seconds left in the game and I saved the shot that could have sent us into overtime. I cleared to one of the seniors at the time, who was down the field in a matter of seconds and we were able to maintain possession for the rest of the game. It was awesome because we were the expected underdogs, but we proved every non-believer wrong. Also, seeing my name on the list for the Super Junior team was probably one of the greatest feelings. 

3.What do you do to get ready for a game?

Well, physically I get ready by warming up for every game, at first  being just a shooter and me. But more important I prepare myself mentally. Sounds crazy but I have to talk to myself, build up the game in my head and how I'm going to play my part in helping the team be successful. Take out any negative thoughts and just amp myself up. And of course any pump up music is great. 

4. Do you play any other sports? 

Well, as of junior year all I did was play lacrosse. Participating in the indoor sessions in the fall and winter and playing in the normal spring season. However this year I went out for the cheerleading team which was a pretty different experience than lacrosse.

5. What are some of your hobbies when you're not playing lacrosse?

Just the typical teenage stuff, hangout with friends and such. I'm really into art too and being outside!