As the Bellefonte Lady Raider Lacrosse team nears the end of their season, senior captain Catherine Reed showcases her skills on defense and ties the team together.

Catherine “the claw” Reed spends her time on the defensive side of the ball and she shows unmatchable leadership towards her teammates. She stands out as an essential defensive player as she is constantly following the ball and protecting our goalie from offensive shots.

Catherine has been playing lacrosse for seven years and believes defense plays a huge role in winning, even though they don’t often get to score. Senior Makena Lake has been alongside Catherine throughout her whole lacrosse career. 

“My favorite part of playing with Cat is her determination, kindness, and love for the team,” Makena said.

Through constantly keeping the team positive and giving all her effort at practice, Catherine has become a very beloved member of the team that every Lady Raider looks up to. She is always doing her best to get the team hyped up before and after games, on bus rides, and at practice. Catherine’s work ethic along with her unwavering kindness are what makes her stand out as a leader on the lacrosse team.

Head Coach Kerry O’Hara has had the privilege of watching Catherine grow into not only an amazing person, but an amazing player as well.

“Catherine’s leadership comes from her performance and experience. She expects others to contribute at the same level she does,” Kerry said. 

Though she is probably one of the most kind-hearted defenders you’ll meet, Catherine knows there is a fine line between giving up a goal, and being a good sportsman. She never fails to help up an opposing player, however under no circumstance will she let an offensive player past her. Catherine’s nickname “the claw” comes from her talent at driving any offensive players away from the goal, and ending up with the ball after nearly every clear from the goalie. 

“She is a literal defense queen. She can shut down anyone who gets in her way,” Makena said.

As for the future, Catherine plans to attend Indiana University of Pennsylvania to study Early childhood education. Though she is leaving her phenomenal lacrosse career at Bellefonte High, parents, friends, and audience members are ecstatic to see the wonderful person Catherine is becoming and watch her journey from the sidelines. Catherine has made an impact on so many lives on and off the field.