Schools

Lapszynski Heads to Niagara to Play Basketball

The Lady Falcon hoops star signed her letter of intent.

Cooler temperatures, more snow, Niagara Falls—oh yeah, and a Division I women’s basketball program—are what 's Sam  Lapszynski will have to look forward to in the fall when she heads off to Niagara University to play. Lapszynski signed her letter of intent recently with her family,  coach Jim O’Connor and Jefferson athletic director John DiColo on hand.

While she’s not sure what she wants to study in school yet, she’s looking forward to the new challenge.

“I’m going to miss the close-knit team we have here. We have our inside goofy jokes and we’re very comfortable with each other,” Lapszynski said. “I’ll also miss Coach O’Connor. He’s an awesome coach. But I hope I’ll find something similar at Niagara.”

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There’s a lot about Lapszynski that O’Connor will miss as well.

“Sammy has drive and determination to be the very best player that she can be.  She never takes the game or her talents for granted.  She works just as hard today as she has everyday of her career,” O’Connor said.

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“She is a captain and a great leader, mostly by example and always with a kind word.  She is constantly teaching the Falcon Tradition to the younger players and gets along with everyone,” he added. “Sam is going to be a hard player to replace next year, not only because of her talent but because of the energy she brings to practice and games.  Sam is always in a great mood and a joy to coach.”


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