ALLENDALE, MICH. – The Grand Valley women's lacrosse program announced their captains for the upcoming 2023 campaign. The team selected Aislynn Alkire, Molly Bursinger, Maggie Hammer, and Shae Strehl as their four captains this season.
 
"I am extremely confident in the ability for these four women to lead our team this season. Last year our leadership set an amazing example of what it means to lead on and off the field which was a big reason to our record setting season," remarked head coach Mackenzie Lawler. "These four will continue that legacy and help make their own mark on our program and lead this team to new heights."
 
Aislynn Alkire is a junior defender, who is coming off a spring season in which she was named First-Team All-GLIAC as well as Second Team All-Region by the IWLCA. The Mishawaka, Indiana native tallied 31 groundballs over her 21 starts last year, and was a member of a Laker defense that help opponents to just over six goals per game.
 
"Aislynn is one of the hardest working players in our program. Every practice, run, or lift she brings a focus and intensity to compete at her best," said Lawler. "She exemplifies the standards of our program and is constantly encouraging her teammates."
 
Senior midfielder Molly Bursinger takes over a captain's role after a massive season. She was selected as the GLIAC Midfielder of the Year, First-team All-GLIAC, IWLCA First-Team All-Region, IWLCA First-Team All-American, and USA Lacrosse Magazine Third-Team All-American, as she culminated last season with 72 points on 50 goals and 22 assists, and collected a team-high 124 draw controls.
 
"As a returning two-time All-American, Molly sets the example what it takes to be an elite player in our program," Lawler commented. "Her calmness under pressure and competitive nature continue to make her a top player in DII and a player we can count on in big moments. Her intensity and level of play elevate our team every day in practice."
 
Fifth-year graduate student midfielder Maggie Hammer slides into a leadership role after posting a 60-point season last spring. The Rockford, Michigan native, scored 28 goals and dished a team leading 32 assists en route to earning All-GLIAC honorable mention honors and IWLCA Second-Team All-Region plaudits as well.
 
"As a fifth-year graduate player, Maggie brings extensive experience to our program. She was with Coach Nora and myself in our first season at GVSU and has been with us at every milestone along the way," stated Lawler. "Her dedication to this team and approachability to our younger players makes her a great leader."
 
The fourth captain for the 2023 season is senior defender Shae Strehl. The Second-Team All-GLIAC honoree was a key part of the Lakers dominant defense a season ago, as she forced 10 turnovers and picked up 23 groundballs over her 16 games of action. Strehl was a lockdown defender for the Lakers, helping propel the Lakers to the number four scoring defense in all of Division II.
 
"Shae's defensive IQ and understanding help bring confidence to our defensive unit," Lawler said. "Her ability to give constructive feedback has been a tremendous asset this fall season in helping our younger players be ready for spring. Shae also brings a contagious positive spirit which helps our team have fun throughout the adversity of a season."