Wellesley Athlete of the Week is made possible with sponsorship support from Deland, Gibson Insurance. The family-owned and operated business has carried on this Wellesley tradition for over 30 years.

Athlete of the Week: Olivia Comella

Sport: Lacrosse (senior, captain)

When & how you got involved in lacrosse: I first started playing lacrosse in 1st grade. My parents signed me up because it was just another activity for me to do. My first time playing lacrosse in first grade was during Wellesley youth lacrosse fall ball.

What you love most about lacrosse: I love the speed. I played attack so on the offensive side, and I love when we are able to move the ball so quickly. I also love how fast that we are able to make plays and open lanes for each other to score. I love watching the ball whip around to each girl on offense.

Pre-meet routine: I have a blue hair tie that I always wear.

Top goal for this season: To win a state championship.

Thoughts about this year’s team: I think that this is one of the best teams I’ve ever been on. All of the girls this year are so close and we have created such a good bond. I feel like I have such a great relationship with everyone on the team. I love coming to practice and games and just being with them. We are all so determined and involved in this sport. We are also so intense about it which is something that I love.

An accomplishment that you’re especially proud of: Last July , I committed to Arizona State University to play lacrosse.

A memory related to your involvement in lacrosse/this team: Every two years the team has the privilege to go on a trip during April break. This past April break we went to San Diego. It was the one of the best trips I’ve ever been on. It was such great bonding with the team and so much fun to play these teams on the other side of the country. It was overall an amazing experience and something I wish I could do again.

Interests outside of lacrosse: Outside of my sport I love to be outside, be with my friends and family, and go to the beach.

What other sports do you play, if any? I also play ice hockey.

Coach Steve Balter on Olivia Comella: “Liv has built off of her breakout junior season and has become an undeniable presence both on the field and as a leader for our team. Liv is committed to play college lacrosse at Arizona State, a top 40 Division 1 program. She leads the team through 17 games with 75 goals and 97 points. Her speed and shiftiness make her almost unstoppable 1v1 and cause defenses to collapse to her, opening up opportunities for others. Liv is also a gifted leader off the field, unifying our team with a great balance of intensity and fun.”