Six George Mason women's lacrosse players earned 2025-26 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District® At-Large Team honors, making the team the only representation from the university this year. The honorees include senior midfielders Kate Anders and Riley Ellis, goalkeeper Regan Bestick, graduate midfielder Kaitlyn Bestick, defender Gabby Rizzio, and sophomore midfielder Giselle Torain. The selection recognizes outstanding student-athletes excelling both in athletics and academics, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.50. All players contributed significantly to the team’s successful season, highlighting their dual commitment to sports and studies.

By the Numbers
  • Kate Anders led the team with 50 goals, 12 assists, and 55 draw controls.
  • Regan Bestick recorded 147 saves in goal for the Patriots.
  • Riley Ellis had a team-high 28 assists throughout the season.
  • Kaitlyn Bestick scored 29 goals and earned Atlantic 10 All-Academic honors.
Yes, But

While the women's lacrosse team excelled academically and athletically, other sports programs at George Mason did not receive similar recognition this year, indicating a disparity in academic performance across the athletic department.

State of Play
  • Women's lacrosse is established as a standout program within the George Mason athletic community.
  • The recognition emphasizes the importance of balancing academics and athletics among student-athletes.
What's Next

Those honored will advance to the CSC Academic All-America® ballot, with selections to be announced on July 7. This could boost future recruiting efforts for the program by highlighting academic excellence combined with on-field performance.

Bottom Line

The achievements of the six student-athletes exemplify the success of George Mason’s women's lacrosse program, spotlighting their academic rigor alongside competitive accomplishments. This serves as a model for other programs striving for academic recognition.