Two Athletes Sign National Letters of Intent

Recently, two of Westminster’s Sixth Form athletes signed national letters of intent with Division I schools. Kieran McDonald signed with the University of North Carolina to play lacrosse, and Emily Walsh committed to the University of Vermont for ice hockey. Both of these Martlets have excelled as skilled athletes and outstanding leaders.

McDonald came to Westminster as a Fifth Former and immediately made an impact. In addition to being an outstanding lacrosse player, he has been a significant contributor to football and basketball. In fact, he was elected captain of all three sports for the 2008-2009 school year, a rare feat and a clear indication of the respect he has earned from his peers. According to basketball coach Tony Griffith, “McDonald is our leader on and off the court, and his sportsmanship and toughness exemplify ‘grit and grace.’” It is on the lacrosse field, however, where McDonald has truly set the standard. Coach Peter Newman ’80 praises him as the team’s best athlete. “For his speed, field sense, athletic IQ and leadership, Kieran is one of the best defensemen to have ever worn the Westminster (lacrosse) uniform,” said Coach Newman. Last spring, McDonald earned All-League and All-America honors in lacrosse.

Emily Walsh is a four-year student who also has made significant contributions in three sports: field hockey, ice hockey and lacrosse. She is captain for all three sports this year in addition to having captained field hockey and lacrosse in her Fifth Form year. On all teams, Walsh is a key figure, who serves as a role model. In field hockey, her team has benefited from her strong leadership and in the last two seasons the team has reached the New England Class A Tournament.

In ice hockey, Walsh has had an impact as a player since her Third Form year. According to First Girls’ Ice Hockey coach David Pope, “Emily is a very special player, not just because she has great skills but also because she is relentless in games and in practice. There is never a day when she is not trying to out work every other player on the ice. She is incredibly explosive. She gets to full speed very quickly and often surprises defenders stealing the puck from them before they realize she is on them. She has incredible balance and superb hands as well. These talents have allowed her to contribute to our success since the day she arrived three years ago.” During Walsh’s time at Westminster, First Girls’ Ice Hockey has had unprecedented success winning the Founders’ League title and participating in the New England Division I Tournament.