The Worcester State University women’s lacrosse team was scheduled to host Framingham State for its annual Senior Day on Saturday, April 25, before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of their season after just five games. In lieu of the usual on-field Senior Day festivities, Worcester State Athletics is bringing the traditional ceremony online.
The two members of Worcester State women’s lacrosse’s Class of 2020 combined to play in 80 games in a Worcester State uniform, making 74 starts. The tandem won 29 games in their time with the Lancers, and qualified for the MASCAC Tournament all three years.
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The first Lancer senior, a midfielder from Chelmsford, Mass., is Rachel Hopkins.
Rachel played in and started 40 games for the Lancers after transferring to Worcester State prior to her sophomore year. A two-sport athlete for the Lancers who was an All-American on the field hockey team last fall, Rachel scored 44 goals and 16 assists for 60 points in her lacrosse career, and was the team’s leading goal-scorer this year with 11 before the season was called.
“Rachel brings fire and intensity to the field,” said head coach Kelly Downs. “She is a player that has grit and hustle, and will fight to every last ball. You want the ball in her stick when there are seconds left on the clock because she will go above and beyond to get the job done for the team.”
The Worcester State University Athletic Department would like to thank Rachel Hopkins on her career with the Lancers!
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The second Lancer senior, a defender from Plymouth, Mass., is Isabell Baldrate.
Isabell also played in 40 games in a Worcester State uniform, making 34 starts in her four-year career. Despite missing the majority of her junior year due to an injury, Isabell has served as a captain for the Lancers each of the last two seasons. In her career, she has compiled 43 ground balls, 26 caused turnovers, and three draw controls, and was also named to the IWLCA Academic Honor Squad and MASCAC All-Academic Team.
“Isabel has been the glue on this team for the past 4 years,” said Coach Downs. “She has brought Worcester State women’s lacrosse to the next level and has been able to lead the team with poise and utmost character. Her determination to get back on the field this season after last year’s season-ending injury is a true testament to Isabell’s character.”
The Worcester State Athletic Department congratulates Isabell Baldrate on a fantastic career!
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On behalf of the entire Worcester State community, we thank Rachel and Isabell for their contributions to the women's lacrosse program, and wish them all the best in their future endeavors!
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