On Tuesday, Jan. 27, Morganne Taylor announced her commitment to Simmons University for swimming and lacrosse. Taylor was initially drawn to each sport’s structure and intensity, participating in them both for nearly a decade.
“Being more of an independent sport, swimming challenged me by competing in events by myself. Meanwhile, lacrosse gave me the energy of competing alongside a team,” Taylor told The Fanscotian.
Simmons University is a private institution in Boston, MA, and it was founded in 1899. It is known for being the only women-centered university in the city, ranking highly in nursing, social work and library science. The Sharks compete in the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) at the NCAA Division III level.
“I always dreamed of living in Boston, so I chose Simmons because of the location and environment,” Taylor said. “Simmons has a great reputation of being a close-knit community while also being extremely supportive [of] students.”
On Feb. 8, the swimming and diving team placed fourth at the GNAC Championship meet, capturing a gold medal in the 400-yard medley relay and having four individual podium finishes. The previous three years, the team finished as runners-up to the Norwich Cadets. In 2018, the program earned their first-ever title at the New England Intercollegiate Swimming & Diving Association (NEISDA) championship.
The lacrosse team has been very consistent over recent seasons, with their last winning record in 2023 at 14-5. The Sharks are currently 0-2 to start their spring season, but are looking to reach the postseason again where they can compete for hardware.
“I am most looking forward to competing at a higher level and continuing to grow as both an athlete, student and friend,” Taylor said. “I’m excited to build relationships with my teammates and coaches, while representing Simmons in both sports.”
Taylor’s high school swimming career concluded on a high note as she and the team reached the semifinal round of the NJSIAA North II, Group B tournament after pulling off the upset against fourth-seeded Ridge. The Raiders also placed highly at the Union County championship meet on Jan. 30, piecing together another encouraging campaign.
The senior reflects on the lessons that have followed from each sport, carrying them during and outside of the winter and spring seasons.
“Throughout the years, swimming has taught me patience, time management and how to overcome mental blocks,” Taylor said. “Lacrosse has strengthened my ability to create strong bonds with other players and has shown me the importance of trust and sportsmanship.”
Looking ahead to the spring season, Taylor intends to return to playing lacrosse for the Raiders after taking a break from the sport.
“I would like to give a special acknowledgement to Coach Martina, Coach Jess, and Coach Colodne for always believing in me and inspiring me to not only continue swimming in college but also pick up lacrosse again,” Taylor said.
Although Taylor’s journey as a Raider is still being written, she took a moment to express her immense gratitude and pride for the relationships and memories along the way.
“Overall, my experience playing at SPF has been incredibly meaningful,” Taylor said. “I will never forget how my coaches have pushed me to be my best while always supporting me. My teammates have truly become my family.”
