How Westford Academy’s Kendall Donovan made up for lost time

Junior midfielder Kendall Donovan of Westford Academy (Mass.) will continue her lacrosse career at UNH. (Courtesy)

Kendall Donovan felt good about what she’d accomplished during her freshman season at Westford Academy (Mass.).

With less than two years of club lacrosse under her belt, she’d made a significant impact, leading the team in caused turnovers while handling a tough position -- defensive midfielder -- against players two and three years older.

“She was just a standout,” said Westford Academy coach Julie Olivier. “She came into a very senior team and you wouldn’t have known she was a freshman on that team. She was dominant in the midfield at the defensive end. ... She digs deeper than any player on the field."

Donovan felt she’d take another step toward achieving her dream of playing in college. She had some film and, after all, would have another spring season and summer showcase season to produce more before Sept. 1 of her junior year rolled around.