WESTON, Mass. — Despite starting lacrosse in 7th grade, considered late by some standards, Lilliana (Lily) Kacyvenski (18), has made her mark on her lacrosse teams. She currently plays for Weston High School’s (WHS) Girls Varsity Lacrosse and Mass Elite Lacrosse club, and will continue to play lacrosse at Harvard University (Division 1) in the fall.

Before discovering lacrosse, Lily competed at the Junior Olympic gymnastics level for seven years. Additionally, she has been a member of the WHS Varsity Indoor Track team since 8th grade.

Lily’s remarkable speed and athleticism, as well as her focus, hard work, and determination, have propelled her to numerous achievements in both lacrosse and track. In lacrosse, she was named the 2023 USA Lacrosse Academic All-American, a 2023 EMGLCA USA All-Academic and All-Star, a DCL All-League (2023) and All-Star (2021, 2022, 2023), and Rookie of the Year (2021). Further, she was chosen for the 2022 American-Select Team, Massachusetts/Rhode Island USA Lacrosse National Tournament Team (2022 & 2023), and the Inside Lacrosse 2023 Committed Academy All-Tournament Team.

In track, Lily boasts an impressive record as a four-time DCL All-Star, holds the School Record and Meet Record (at MIAA State Relays) for the 4×200 relay (2023 & 2024), and has claimed titles such as the 2021 New Balance Games Long Jump Champion. She is a frequent qualifier at Nationals in the 4×200 relay and 55-meter dash, showcasing her versatility and talent on the track.

Congrats, Lily!

Interview with Lily:

What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?

Lilliana Kacyvenski: To continue to train and compete at 110% with no regrets, all while constantly improving my abilities. Further, I want to make my mark at Harvard and be the best teammate, competitor, student, and friend I can be.

What do you love about your sport?

Kacyvenski: Lacrosse gives me the freedom of creativity. I can shoot, pass, dodge, and celebrate however I choose. The rush of adrenaline after a big win and the post-game celebration with teammates is so rewarding. I’m also extremely grateful for the opportunities the sport has given me.

What is your biggest challenge in your sport, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

Kacyvenski: Since I started lacrosse ‘late,’ when most of my teammates and opponents had a 4-6 year head start on me, I had to stay focused and not be too hard on myself when I made rudimentary mistakes. I had to work extremely hard outside of practice time to elevate my level of play.

What was the best advice you were ever given?

Kacyvenski: My father, Isaiah Kacyvenski, Sr., lived by his credo, “Let no one outwork you today. (But have fun…).” Those words pulled him out of a childhood of poverty and on a path to Harvard and then the NFL. I try to live by that quote everyday both on and off the field.

Describe a mistake you made while competing and how you overcame it.

Kacyvenski: I let my adrenaline and competitiveness overpower my discipline and fouled out of last season’s Final Four game. Therefore, I wasn’t there when my teammates needed me most. I have vowed to never let that happen again.

Do you have a pregame ritual you follow?

Kacyvenski: Simply put, a PB&J and war paint (eye black) is all I need.

What has being a member of a team taught you?

Kacyvenski: Leadership, discipline, and several life lessons. It has also blessed me with countless lifelong friendships.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Kacyvenski: I’d like to say a quick thank you to people who have helped me who don’t always get enough credit! Mr. McGrath for literally everything you do, my guidance counselor Mr. Townsend, the amazing teachers I have had at WHS, Mike Boyle’s Strength and Conditioning & Athletic Evolution, Rizz for the countless times you helped me get back on the field, all my fantastic track coaches, my Mass Elite coaches for all of the guidance & training, and, last but most certainly not least, Wink. Coach, you’ve given us so much of your time and dedication. We love you and can never thank you enough!

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