ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. — Junior defender Carsyn Smith of St. Mary’s College of Maryland women’s lacrosse team has been named the United East Conference Defensive Player of the Week, as announced by the league office on March 24, 2025. The Crownsville, Maryland native, an Old Mill High School alum, secured her first career weekly award after standout performances against two Top 25 teams, despite the Seahawks dropping both contests.
Facing No. 10 York College of Pennsylvania on March 19, St. Mary’s fell 16-10, followed by a 16-9 loss to No. 25 Messiah University on March 22. Smith, standing at 5-foot-5, anchored the defense with a career-high five caused turnovers, a season-best two draw controls, and two ground balls against York. She followed up with three ground balls, one caused turnover, and one draw control at Messiah. Her efforts highlight her growing impact for the Seahawks, who now stand at 2-6 overall.
In the United East Conference, Smith ranks third with 12 caused turnovers and ties for fifth with 18 ground balls, showcasing her defensive prowess among peers. Her award marks the fourth time a St. Mary’s player has claimed the defensive honor this season, following senior midfielder Colin Horton (Feb. 24) and sophomore defender Claire Boudreau (March 3 and March 10). Bryn Athyn’s Kira Bradley interrupted the streak on March 17.
Smith’s recognition comes amid a challenging stretch for St. Mary’s, which has dropped two straight to ranked opponents. The team’s next test is a non-conference matchup against Widener University (3-5) on March 29 in Chester, Pennsylvania, at 1 p.m. Widener, coming off a 15-9 loss to No. 11 York, presents an opportunity for the Seahawks to rebound, per Widener athletics.
The United East Conference, encompassing schools across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and beyond, continues to spotlight St. Mary’s defensive talent in 2025. Smith’s breakout week strengthens a unit aiming to turn around a season that follows an 8-9 record in 2024, according to smcmathletics.com. As the Seahawks prepare for Widener, her leadership on the backline will be key.
