By Chris Goldberg
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 2/24/11
Allie Murray admits she never even thought about making the United States Under-19 National lacrosse team.
In fact, when the Downingtown East senior goalie heard she made the final cut three weeks ago, she said she thought the team would not be finalized until May.
“I am extremely excited,” said Murray. “It’s the greatest honor to represent our country. It’s something I never dreamed could happen to me.”
Murray and Episcopal Academy midfielder Taylor Trimble – both seniors – were the two Philly players named to the final roster for the US after competing with the team at the Champion Challenge at Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The US will compete in Hannover, Germany, at the 2011 Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) U19 World Championship in early August. (See story on Trimble being named captain)
Murray was not even eligible for All-American honors last year because she was a second team Ches-Mont League pick (behind Unionville’s two-time All-American Melissa Lloyd) for the Cougars, who placed fifth in District 1 and advanced to states. Still, Murray earned All-Phillylacrosse.com honors and excelled for Team Philly at the Under Armour Underclassmen Games in July.
Then in August at the US tryouts, she impressed everyone to earn the cut for the training squad.
“It actually didn’t hit me (that I made the training team) until I saw my name,” she said. “There were so many big-name goalies and I wasn’t expected to make it. Seeing my name was a total shock. I was pretty much of an unknown until then.
“And I actually did not know they were cutting to the final team after Florida. I thought they were making the cuts in May. It was such an honor to even make the training team.”
Murray said the players on the team have been great friends.
“It’s been so much fun to meet new players and work so well with them,” she said. “Everyone roots for everyone else.
“Also, everyone meshes so well. They are all great players that respect each other. They all know what they are good at and they know how to play to each other’s strengths.”
Murray said playing on the national team has made her a much better player.
“I never had such good shots on me,” said Murray, who also plays for PA Express club. “It’s a real challenge and whole different level of play. Everything moves as such a higher level and and it’s so much fun trying to reach that level.”
Now that she has her spot on the team, it’s easier to focus on the 2011 high school season. This year the Cougars are one of the favorites to contend for league, District 1 and state honors.
“Hopefully, we’ll pull through in the league,” she said. “I am just trying to work hard and enjoy it.
“I always keep working hard. I can’t let down since I made the team.”
