Dual-Sport Athlete Rae Alexander Shines at UMass Boston

News Summary

Rae Alexander, an 18-year-old dual-sport athlete at UMass Boston, excels in both hockey and lacrosse while pursuing a psychology major. Her impressive performance includes scoring 18 goals in lacrosse and contributing to the hockey team, showcasing her athletic talent. Alexander aims to become a pediatric speech-language pathologist, driven by a passion for helping children. With support from her community and family, she aspires to take on leadership roles and guide incoming freshmen in balancing athletics with academics.

Boston, MA – Rae Alexander, an 18-year-old dual-sport athlete at UMass Boston, is making significant strides as both a hockey and lacrosse player while pursuing her academic ambitions in psychology. A recent graduate of BFA-St. Albans, Class of 2024, Alexander has set her sights on becoming a pediatric speech-language pathologist, a goal that drives her studies and athletic commitments.

During her freshman year at UMass Boston, Alexander excelled in lacrosse, scoring a total of 18 goals and providing 11 assists, which demonstrates her skill on the field. Additionally, she made contributions to the hockey team, scoring one goal and assisting on three others through the same season. Her lacrosse journey included a notable final game where she scored three goals and recorded four assists, showcasing her impact in crucial moments.

Though Alexander’s performance in both sports has been remarkable, the transition between hockey and lacrosse proved to be challenging. With only one day off separating the two seasons, she faced significant mental and physical demands, highlighting the rigorous nature of balancing athletics with academics. Despite these challenges, Alexander has found fulfillment in the “close-knit” teams of both sports and has appreciated the welcoming environment fostered by upperclassmen on the teams.

Academic Aspirations

Beyond the playing field, Alexander is pursuing a major in psychology along with a minor in biology. Her academic pursuits align with her career goal to earn a master’s degree in speech and language pathology. This interest stems from a desire to work with children, helping them overcome speech challenges to enrich their communication skills and overall well-being.

Support and Community

The support from the St. Albans community has played a vital role in Alexander’s journey. Her former high school coaches, Luke Cioffi and Mary Pipes, have been instrumental in building her confidence, preparing her for the collegiate level. Similarly, she credits her college coaches, Moe Bradley and Hannah Khin, for their guidance and the opportunities they have provided, which have both enriched her athletic experience and personal growth.

Rae’s family has also been a constant source of encouragement. Her parents, who have attended numerous games, have provided invaluable support throughout her athletic career. This strong familial bond, along with the community support, helps her navigate the demands of being a student-athlete with resilience and enthusiasm.

Future Goals and Leadership

Looking ahead, Alexander is eager to take on leadership roles within her teams during the upcoming season. She aims to assist incoming freshmen in adjusting to college athletics, sharing her experiences and offering guidance to help them succeed. Her commitment to being a supportive teammate reflects the values she learned growing up and competing in sports.

Advice for Aspiring Athletes

For those considering a path as collegiate athletes, Alexander emphasizes the importance of hard work and thorough research into potential schools. She stresses that aspiring athletes should be cognizant of the time and commitment required to balance sports with academics. This perspective not only prepares them for potential challenges but also instills a work ethic that benefits them both on and off the field.

Overall, Rae Alexander’s journey as a dual-sport athlete at UMass Boston showcases her dedication to athletics and academics while fostering a supportive community spirit that motivates her aspirations for the future. Her passion for sports and a desired career in speech-language pathology exemplifies how the disciplines of athletics and education intertwine to shape a promising future.

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Additional Resources

• St. Albans Messenger
• Times Argus
• Burlington Free Press
• Wikipedia: Speech and Language Pathology
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Psychology