via press release – photo via Saint Leo web site   SAINT LEO, Fla. – The Saint Leo women’s lacrosse team announced its captains for the 2017 season in seniors Kelsey Burns and Danica Leili, and junior Katherine Larson, as decided by the coaches, with input from the rest of the team. “This year’s trio of captains are a dedicated and committed group of young women,” Graham stated of her threesome of leaders. “The three of them epitomize hard work—in the classroom, on the field and in all aspects of representing Saint Leo Women’s Lacrosse. They each bring a unique perspective and style to their leadership role which helps keep things balanced and level-headed. They present a cohesive and mature response to any situations that need handling and are an excellent representation of what we want our leaders to be.” Burns, a native of Colts Neck, N.J., has seen action in every game of her career at Saint Leo, including starting all but two games. She has provided aid for the Lions all over the field, scoring over 20 goals in each of her first three seasons, while also adding draw control wins, and caused turnovers. “Kelsey is a quiet leader, but she shows great resolve and determination in her actions on the field,” Graham said of her two-time Second Team All-SSC Selection. “She consistently works to be a well-rounded player on both ends of the field, and the younger members of the team look up to her for her level of skill and more importantly commitment.” Leili, a Palm Coast, Fla., native, has played in 47 games for the Green and Gold in her first three seasons. “Danica has grown into a leader from her freshmen year until now. She is always willing to cheer on a teammate, push them a little harder and put the team first. She can always be counted on for a smile and a cheer.” The third captain for the Lions is Larson, a native of Apple Valley, Minn. Larson has played in all 31 games for the Lions in her first two seasons and has recorded 18 goals, adding 26 ground balls, and 27 draw control wins so far in her career. “Katie always has insightful words when the team needs a pick-me-up or a reprimand. Her knowledge of the game helps her mentor the younger players to learn the systems and style of play to be successful on the field.” Larson, Leili and Burns will lead the Lions into the 2017 season where they look to bounce back from a 3-12 2016 season. “These three captains, as well as our stellar group of upper classmen, have shone brightly this fall—putting in the work and time to bounce back from an off year and challenge themselves to bigger and better things for the upcoming 2017 season,” Graham remarked. Saint Leo looks to open up the season on Feb. 25 at Newberry College in Newberry, S.C. For the latest news, updates, and information on the Saint Leo women’s lacrosse team visit SaintLeoLions.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.