EVANSTON — Three years after ending her freshman season on Northwestern’s Lakeside Field, Kate Christian capped her prep career at the same place.
While they lost the 2011 title game to Loyola, Christian and the Red Devils went out with a win this year, beating Glenbrook South 12-6 on Friday to take third place in the state tournament.
“To be here as a freshman was an honor,” said Christian, an attacker who scored a game-high three goals against the Titans and finished with 38 for the season. “To come back as a senior was the coolest thing. It’s been an incredible experience, and I am so lucky to have been part of this.”
Christian, along with senior attacker Jacquie Edwards, played varsity for all four years at Hinsdale Central. The Red Devils finished fourth or better in the state each of those seasons.
“Right off the bat, they were huge contributors,” said assistant coach Samantha Santulli. “Both were strong on the attack and both provided leadership. They were two players you could always count on.”
Hinsdale Central went 18-3 this spring, losing twice to state champion Loyola by a combined three goals, including an 11-10 defeat to the Ramblers in the state semifinals. The game-winning goal came with four seconds remaining.
“We were very upset about that loss, but we worked hard in practice and got ready again to play,” Christian said. “We wanted to get third place, and we did. I think we showed a lot of character.”
Edwards and Christian — who combined for 307 goals and 128 assists over four seasons — were two of seven seniors on this season’s roster. But the Red Devils should return a host of talented players for next year. Seven of the 12 goals scored Friday were by girls with eligibility remaining.
“We definitely are leaving the team in good hands,” said Christian, who plans to play lacrosse at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. “These young girls already have stepped up, so we know there is a foundation there for the future.”
