Building the Pitt Program: Emily Coughlin

PITTSBURGH – Building a program is nothing new for incoming freshman Emily Coughlin. In the fourth grade, Coughlin joined Plum Youth team for their inaugural season, working hard to learn the sport and help her team compete with other local programs.

Coughlin grew up in Pittsburgh and has always loved the University of Pittsburgh. Attending Oakland Catholic High School put Coughlin in walking distance from the University for years, leading her to hope she would one day become a Panther.

"Even before lacrosse, I've been able to go to Pitt's campus a lot," Coughlin said. "I went to high school only a few minutes down the road. The campus is amazing, and it has the busy city feeling that I love. I can't wait to move into the dorms and start to live on my own a little bit."

Upon entering high school, Coughlin joined her varsity team and another local club program, True Lacrosse. As a junior, the Eagles advanced to the WPIAL championships, collecting Oakland Catholic's first district win. These opportunities offered Coughlin a competitive and high-intensity environment to prepare for the toughness of collegiate lacrosse.

"Playing for a college team, especially in the ACC, is going to be a challenge but that's what makes you a better player," she said. "The competition is going to keep me going and make me want to be even better and keep working even harder."

Playing lacrosse throughout most of her life has given Coughlin more than just athleticism. Through the sport, Coughlin has been able to make strong connections with other local players and coaches and will only continue to strengthen her mind as she decides on a path of study at Pitt.

"My favorite part about the sport is how it has helped me make so many new connections with coaches and other players I've met along the way," Coughlin said. "Without lacrosse, I wouldn't have met some of my best friends. Playing a varsity sport helps in so many ways. I think it will keep me on track academically, too, because we have access to tutors and many more resources if I am ever struggling."

Some of those resources, Coughlin hopes, will be her coaches. Meeting with head coach Emily Boissonneault has helped Coughlin get even more familiar with campus and an understanding of what it will be like to be a part of Pitt's first varsity lacrosse team.

"I heard about Pitt starting a varsity lacrosse team sometime last year. I was so excited to hear that there was a possibility I could play for a school like Pitt," Coughlin said. "The level of intensity the coaches have will definitely impact the team in the best ways possible. Their energy just makes you want to be better and do your best."

Building a program will not be an easy feat, but with great leaders and experienced, hard-working athletes, Pitt lacrosse has a bright future.

"I am really excited to watch the program grow as the years go on," she added. "Hopefully we can all make an impact and do our part to help Coach Emily make this team great."

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Building the Pitt Program: Emily Coughlin

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Emily Coughlin

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