Get to know Maryland lacrosse player, Bishop Shanahan alum Gabe Goforth
DOWNINGTOWN, Pa. — As a perfect end to a perfect 18-0 season, the #1 ranked University of Maryland’s Men’s Lacrosse Team won the 2022 NCAA Championship over Cornell University with a game score of 9-7. Chester Springs local Gabe Goforth, #9 for the Terps and a Class of 2020 graduate from Bishop Shanahan High School, shared the accomplishments with his teammates this past May.
Gabe has been playing lacrosse for as long as he can remember, first trailing along after three of his older siblings, always with a stick in his hand at their practices, games, and tournaments. He loved the creativity of the sport and the constant flux of motion on the field. He made his impressive path as a club player for Freedom Lacrosse and a leading member who contributed to the Shanahan Eagles’ 2019 State Championship season. Gabe finished his four years recognized as a two-time All-State and All-League selection player. He was labeled a five-start recruit and an Under Armour All-American.
When it came time to select a school for his collegiate athletic and academic career, Gabe chose the University of Maryland for its team’s winning culture, prestigious business school, and appeal of the coaching staff and facilities. So far, he has described his experience as nothing less than “remarkable.” “I have met some people that will be my friends for life. I have a group of brothers that will support me through everything, and I have learned countless life lessons through the sport and my coaches.” He enjoys the competitive environment of the UMD program and acknowledges every spot on the team is earned by each player.
He had definitely earned his midfield position since his freshmen year and, with it, a favorite memory by witnessing the genuine happiness with all his teammates when they won the national title. Among all the accolades, Gabe said making it onto the Dean’s List is what he is most proud of since there is such an importance of academics at UMD, and he placed the same intensity of work into his studies to accomplish this honor as a student.
Transitioning from the level of high school play to a highly competitive program at Maryland requires a mindset to overcome mental and physical challenges. Gabe takes the advice he considers best from a coach and former Terrapin: “Play like you are the greatest and most athletic player on the field.” That type of confidence affirmation has helped him perform better and have no fear. He knows every day he is expected to practice and play at his best capability, and sometimes that may not always happen. He copes with this by being surrounded by players who are among his best friends and going through the same expectation. He fuels his competitive spirit with a “next play” mentality and learns the importance of holding each other accountable for decisions made on and off the field as part of the team. “This is something I can take with me for the rest of my life and help me with my future career.”
Gabe’s level of competitive lacrosse play has been an exceptional journey since being the little boy who followed his older brothers and sister around with a stick. However, he still counts the connection with his family, parents Kevin (co-owner of Freedom Lacrosse) and Dawn, and four siblings, Jake, Hannah, Elijah, and Sam, his biggest blessing playing this sport. “(Lacrosse) in some way connects us to one thing we truly love and deeply enjoy. It is something that has been a part of our lives for a very long time”.
Gabe is enjoying some downtime listening to music, spending time with favorite people, and playing golf, but already his mind is on his next goal: to win at least one more national championship as a celebration shared with his cherished teammates, coaches, and family.
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.
