Megan Kelly: Maryland's Dual-Sport Champion
9/26/2001 8:00:00 AM | Field Hockey
Sept. 26, 2001
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - Dedicated. Determined. Competitive. Unselfish. Hardworking. Intense. Even stubborn. Whatever word you use to describe Maryland senior Megan Kelly, be certain to include one more -- champion.
Kelly began her fourth fall at Maryland like she has done every other semester of her college career - in preseason training. The Gaithersburg, Md., native has been a key component of the Terps' national powerhouse field hockey and lacrosse teams since her freshman year in College Park in 1999, and she has the championship rings to prove it.
Kelly has been a member of either an ACC or NCAA title team every season since her arrival on campus. A speedy forward on the hockey turf, she helped Missy Meharg's squad capture the 1999 national championship, as well as ACC crowns in 1998, 1999 and 2000. On the lacrosse field Kelly is one of the gritty defenders that has helped Cindy Timchal's team extend its remarkable NCAA championship streak to seven in a row (1995-2001) while taking ACC titles for the last three years as well.
By playing both sports on the NCAA Division I level, Kelly is an anomaly for student-athletes her age. While competing in two seasons was not uncommon for student-athletes a generation ago, most choose to concentrate on one or the other by the time they reach the collegiate level. Kelly's determination to remain a dual-sport athlete, as well as her success at such an elite level, is unprecedented.
"Megan's play, as well as her success, is a real tribute to her athletic prowess," commented Meharg. "I think her commitment to both programs is very obvious and honorable."
Added Timchal, "Megan's dedication is reflected in her style of play, which is very aggressive and intense. She really gives everything she has while on the playing field, whether in practice or game situations."
Kelly began her playing career a little later than most successful athletes. A youth soccer player and runner, she first picked up field hockey and lacrosse sticks at the age of 12, mostly because all of her new junior high school friends were doing it.
Following in the sport success of parents Rick (football) and Marlene (track and field), Kelly quickly became a high school standout at the Holton Arms School in both sports. Her desire to continue playing hockey and lacrosse and to be a part of championship teams brought her to College Park.
"I didn't come [to Maryland] to be a superstar. I came to play, and I came to win," said Kelly. "It's very rewarding [to be a part of a team]. I know my role, do what I need to do, and do what I do best."
Among the many talented athletes in both the field hockey and lacrosse programs, Kelly found her role as a Terp to be a little different from her high school career. She adjusted quickly though, and through several seasons of determined practice, developed into a regular starter for both teams. While never a team-leading goal scorer, Kelly has seen increased playing time and statistical improvement thanks to her work ethic.
"I don't know anything else besides playing hard and working hard," explained Kelly. "I was taught when I was younger to give everything I've got."
Kelly's determination is a quality that not only benefits the Terps, but her other "home team" as well. The oldest of four sisters, Kelly's propensity for athletics is reflected in each of her younger siblings. Kristin (19) is a redshirt freshman lacrosse player at Maryland, while Shannon (17) and Morgan (15) both play field hockey and lacrosse at the Bullis School in Potomac, Md.
"They follow me to an extent, but I wouldn't want them to play because of me," said the eldest Kelly. "I want them to play because it's something they want to do."
Playing the role of a dual-sport athlete can be tremendously challenging, as Kelly will tell you. Having no true "offseason" is extremely demanding, both physically and mentally.
"It is a real challenge for Megan to keep up a level of 'in-season' competitiveness throughout the year," said Meharg. "I'm pleased with the intensity and mentality she brings so early in the season."
So how does Kelly accomplish so much without burning out? The answer comes easier than the challenge in the question.
"I love them both [field hockey and lacrosse]," said Kelly. "If I dropped one, I'd feel like a part of me is missing. We have great programs and great chances at winning national titles this year, and I'm excited for them both."
It has been said, "It takes a little more to make a champion."
Megan Kelly has a lot.
Contact: Mark Fratto
fratto@wam.umd.edu
