Field Hockey | June 13, 2023

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – La Salle field hockey head coach Martu Loncarica has announced her newest signing class welcoming 10 new Explorers to the roster ahead of the 2023 season.
 
Natalie Ricci, Darian DeLeo, Clara Larripa, Gabrielle LaCroix, Natalie Wilson, Abby Boggs, Camila Daud, Matilda Diedrichsen, Dunja Haertsch and Julianna Smyth are the newest faces of the Explorer family.
 
Ricci comes to 20^th & Olney from Garnet Valley High School where she was a four-year varsity member of the field hockey team. Not only did she serve as the team captain, but she also led the team in defensive saves. The defender earned All-State, All-Area, All-League and All-Academic honors during her high school career.
 
"I chose La Salle for the welcoming environment and beautiful campus," said Ricci. "The coaching staff and all the players have a great bond, and I could not be more excited to join them this fall."
 
"Nat's remarkable talent is not limited to her physical prowess on the field; she possesses a rare ability to perceive the entire playing field allowing her to anticipate and make precise decisions in real time," said Loncarica. "What sets Nat apart is her coachability. She is a student of the game and can absorb feedback on the spot and make instant adjustments to elevate her performance.
 
Nat choosing La Salle as her new home fills me with immense pride. Knowing that we have a player of her caliber and character brings a sense of excitement and optimism for the future. With Nat on our team, we can confidently look forward to achieving great things together."
 
DeLeo will travel across the bridge from Mullica Hill, New Jersey where she played for Clearview Regional High School. She's a two-time First Team TriCounty All-Conference, First Team All-South Jersey All-Area Team and All-Group 3 First Team honoree. The incoming freshman has also been named New Jersey Region All-America, NFHCA October Player of the Month, South Jersey Times Player of the Year, Max Field hockey New Jersey All-Region First Team and Max Field Hockey Preseason Player to Watch. Additionally, DeLeo has been a member of the SFHCA Senior All-Star game and a two-time member of the NFHCA High School National Academic Squad. She ended her high school career as the record-holder for career goals with 103.
 
"I chose La Salle because of how welcoming everyone was and how it felt like home," said DeLeo.
 
"Darian is an explosive forward, has an electrifying presence on the field and a competitive mindset. Her playing style seamlessly aligns with the dynamic and evolved style of play that our team embraces, only strengthening our potential," said Loncarica. "Beyond her tuned skills, Darian displays a genuine humility and wholeheartedly embraces a growth mindset, consistently pushing herself to improve and adapt to new challenges. I eagerly await her arrival to La Salle."
 
Larripa comes to the City of Brotherly Love from San Isidro, Buenos Aires where she attended St. Trinnean's School. While there she served as team captain and was named Best player of the Team and Best Sportsman at the school.
 
"I chose La Salle because both academically and athletically it met my expectations for this stage in my life," said Larripa.
 
"We are delighted to welcome Clara Larripa, a powerhouse forward, as she joins our team! Clara brings a unique blend of strength, determination and hunger for goals that will undoubtedly ignite our offensive flair," said Loncarica. "Clara's aggressive playing style is a testament to her unwavering drive and passion for the game. She fearlessly takes on defenders, utilizing her strength and tenacity to create scoring opportunities and keep the opposing defense under constant pressure.
 
Clara is a player who never settles, always seeking to improve and make a significant impact on and off the field. With Clara's determination, our team is poised to achieve great things. We are genuinely excited to have her join our team. Welcome Clara!"
 
LaCroix is headed north to La Salle from Annapolis, Maryland. The four-year varsity starter at St. Mary's High School also served as a team captain for two years. During her senior season, she led the team as the top goal scorer. Additionally, she has earned IAAM All-Conference and All-County honors. The three-year Parvis Scholar was also a member of the National Honor Society for two years.
 
"I chose La Salle because of the amazing field hockey team culture and coaching staff. I knew this is where I wanted to continue in my field hockey and academic career. I am so excited to make La Salle my new home," said LaCroix.
 
"Gabby's versatility and potential make her a valuable asset to any team. Her willingness to go the extra mile and push herself to continuously improve demonstrates her dedication and determination," said Loncarica. "Gabby's strong core values align with our team culture, indicating that she will integrate well with the existing players and contribute positively to the overall dynamics. With her versatility, Gabby can adapt to different positions and roles on the team, providing flexibility and depth. We can't wait to have Gabby join our La Salle family!"
 
Wilson makes the short trip over to Philadelphia from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School graduate was a member of the 2022 Pennsylvania State Championship team. In addition to serving as a four-year varsity starter, Wilson has also earned All-State and All-Academic honors throughout her high school career.
 
"I chose La Salle because of the amazing opportunities both athletically and academically. The coaches and team were so welcoming, so I knew it was home," said Wilson.
 
"Natalie possesses all the necessary tools to excel and evolve into an exceptional player. Her athleticism and solid foundation of fundamental skills provide a strong base for her continuous growth and improvement, which will undoubtedly contribute to raising the overall level of play," said Loncarica. "Natalie's local roots provide her with a strong sense of belonging, both with herself and her teammates. This sense of connection and familiarity can be a powerful motivator, driving her to go above and beyond to contribute to the success of the team."
 
Boggs, another New Jersey native hailing from the town of Salem, comes to La Salle after serving as a four-year varsity goalie and team captain for Salem High School. She is a two-time First Team All-Conference honoree and has earned the nod on the Second Team once before. She has helped her team to two TriCounty Conference Championships and recorded the third-most career saves in New Jersey in the 2022 season.
 
"I chose La Salle because of the great academic programs and the welcoming coaching staff and team. I love the gorgeous campus and could not be more excited to join the Explorer family this fall," said Boggs.
 
"Abby is an exceptional goalkeeper, a true diamond in the rough. Her positive attitude and desire to be a part of something greater set her apart. With her explosive athleticism, dynamic playing style and sharp reflexes, she possesses all the qualities of a talented goalkeeper," said Loncarica. "Abby's unwavering positivity is a priceless asset. She approaches each training session and match with enthusiasm, always seeking opportunities to learn and grow. Her hunger to contribute to the team's success is contagious and inspires those around her to strive for greatness. Welcome Abby!"
 
Another native of Argentina, Daud comes to the United States from Buenos Aires. She attended Saint Mary of the Hills School where she served as the team captain during her junior and senior seasons.
 
"I chose La Salle because the field hockey program has made a noticeable improvement since Martu arrived and not only because of the results of each game, but also because of the team's commitment to working toward her vision," said Daud. "I was able to talk to some of the girls, like Sofia Pla, who told me how positive and comfortable the environment is, which has impacted the way they play on the field. I am so excited to be a part of this process.
 
"Cami brings a remarkable work ethic and a determined mindset to La Salle. Playing in the center of the field, Cami possesses the skill set to disrupt the oppositions play and create opportunities on attack by breaking defensive lines. Her ability to distribute the ball effectively adds an extra dimension to the team's gameplay," said Loncarica.
 
"What truly sets Cami apart, beyond her exceptional playing abilities, is her selflessness and genuine concern for others. Her strong desire to see those around her succeed demonstrates her team-first mentality and leadership qualities.
 
La Salle is privileged to have Cami chose the university as her platform for personal and team growth. Her exceptional playing abilities. Combined with her values and family support, make her a perfect fit for the program. Cami has the potential to become a catalyst for positive change, inspiring her teammates and leaving a lasting impact on La Salle's legacy."
 
Diedrichsen hails from Hamburg Germany where she attended Gymnasium Heidberg. In addition to serving as the team captain, she helped her team to the state championships, as well as the 2022 German Final Four where they finished third. She was a member of the All-Star State Team Hamburg who took first place in the 2022 German State Comparison Tournament.
 
"I chose La Salle because I immediately felt a connection to the coaches and the team. Also, academically, La Salle offers great options for me. I can absolutely picture myself playing and studying there. I am so excited to come to Philly," said Diedrichsen.
 
"Matilda is an exceptional addition to our backfield, bringing a much-needed infusion of structure and discipline. Her leadership skills, combined with her calmness and maturity, will undoubtedly contribute to the development of greater discipline, especially during crucial moments of the game," said Loncarica.
 
"Matilda's arrival promises to elevate our team dynamics and contribute to our success. Her combination of skill, leadership, calmness, maturity and ambition make her an invaluable asset, and we are fortunate to have her join our squad."
 
Haertsch joins the Explorer family from Wangen bei Olten, Switzerland where she attended Kantonsschule Olten. She has been a member of the first-place Swiss Championship 2021 women's team and the U18 indoor and outdoor teams in 2022. In 2019, she helped her U16 team to a second-place finish at the European Championships Hockey5. She played in the European Championships with both her U18 and U21 teams and served as the captain of the U18 national team. Most recently, she helped her team to a second-place finish at the FIH Tournament Hockey5.
 
"I chose La Salle because I felt an immediate connection with the coach who made me feel very welcomed! Another aspect that made me choose La Salle was the importance of team spirit. I am intrigued by the goals they are trying to achieve and look forward to helping the team to reach them," said Haertsch.
 
"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Dunja to our team! Her arrival brings a wealth of talent, intelligence and international playing experience that will undoubtedly elevate our playing style. Dunja's exceptional qualities both on and off the field made her the perfect addition to our team and culture," said Loncarica.
 
"As an intelligent player, Dunja brings a deep understanding of the game. Her strategic thinking and ability to read the field make her an invaluable asset in any situation. Her wealth of international playing experience further enriches her play, allowing her to make quick, decisive decisions that can turn the tide of a match.
 
Beyond her exceptional field hockey abilities, Dunja's kindness and genuine personality make her an absolute joy to have on our team. Her positive attitude and willingness to support and encourage her teammates embody the true spirit of sportsmanship. We have no doubt that her kind-hearted nature will seamlessly fit into our team culture, fostering camaraderie and unity."
 
Another local product, Smyth comes to 20^th & Olney as the team's only transfer for the 2023 season. Smyth previously played four years at Saint Joseph's University. The Downingtown, Pennsylvania native attended Downingtown West High School where she helped lead her team to a district title and state runner-up finish in 2019. As a senior, she earned a spot on the Second Team All-State. Additionally, she was a three-time All-Conference selection. With the Hawks, Smyth was named to the Atlantic 10 Commissioner's and SJU Athletic Director's Honor Rolls. She helped the team to three Atlantic 10 titles and an appearance in the Elite 8.
 
"I chose La Salle because I love the environment of the women's field hockey team. They have such a strong coaching staff and had the exact program I wanted for my master's. I look forward to seeing the team's success this fall," said Smyth.
 
"It is truly remarkable how life brings us full circle, and I'm thrilled to welcome JJ onto our team after coaching her four years ago during her freshman year at SJU. JJ's presence adds a sense of nostalgia and excitement as we embark on this new chapter together," said Loncarica.
 
"During my time coaching JJ, it became evident early on that she possesses a relentless drive to push herself and her teammates to reach new heights. She consistently sets high standards for herself and strive to exceed them, JJ's unwavering commitment to going above and beyond serves as a powerful motivator for the entire team, encouraging everyone to give their best on and off the field.
 
One of the qualities that sets JJ apart is her competitive nature. She brings an intense spirit and burning desire to succeed, igniting a fire within every practice session. Her presence will undoubtedly spice up every minute of our trainings, as her feisty nature challenges her teammates to step up their game and give it their all. This competitiveness will undoubtedly translate onto the field, enhancing our performance as a team."
 
The Explorers will return to action for the 2023 season this August.