Editor's note: This is the latest in a series of Gazette profiles of local athletes.
When Kristy Robertson is on the lacrosse field, it looks like she's been playing the sport all her life.
Her knowledge of the game and leadership among her teammates is unmatched, and her instincts and pure speed and athleticism are uncanny.
But Robertson, a Haverhill High junior, had not played a single lacrosse game before her freshman year.
"I had no idea that she had never played before because she had so much talent," said her coach Mindy Cripps. "It just speaks volumes to her natural ability."
Robertson made the varsity team two years ago and was not a major player, but still contributed and gained valuable experience. Last year, she really began finding her way, scoring eight goals on a team that was led by senior superstar Molly Gleason. This year, Robertson has gotten off to a blazing start, scoring at least six goals in three of her first four games. She has 22 goals in four games as of Monday.
Despite all of her talent, her coach lauds her commitment to the team and not individual accomplishments.
"The real pleasure of coaching her is that she's a team player," Cripps said. "She wants to help develop her teammates by working to bring the team together."
Robertson sat down with the Gazette to talk about life on and off the field.
What would you like to see your team accomplish this season?
I'd like to go at least a few rounds deeper into the tournament than we did last year. (Haverhill was bounced in the first round by Andover last year.)
What do you hope to accomplish this season?
I just want to make sure I get a lot of goals and also be a team leader.
Did you expect to have so much success so early in your career?
I didn't. I just wanted to go in with a good attitude when I tried out as a freshman. But the more I kept practicing, I saw how good I can be.
When did you realize that you had the ability to be one of the star players on the team?
At the end of the summer last year, I joined Revolution Lacrosse, (a club team based in Boston) and they helped me with a lot of skills to make me a better player.
What has been your favorite moment of the last two seasons?
My freshman year when I scored my first goal of my career. It was great. Everyone ran up and hugged me.
Which aspect of lacrosse do you enjoy the most?
I like the communication and how it is a team aspect, not an individual sport.
When did you start playing lacrosse?
Eighth grade. My aunt used to play in college, so I decided to try it and I loved it.
Do you play any other sports?
I run cross country and indoor track. But I love lacrosse the most.
What is your favorite thing that coach Cripps does?
She really tells us on the sideline what is going on. She tells us what's happening on the field from a different point of view. It helps me implement it in the game and helps everyone else.
Do you have any family who have played lacrosse or other sports?
My aunt played lacrosse at Haverhill High and in college.
Have you thought about colleges yet?
Yes, I am looking at Division 1 and 2 colleges. I'm looking at Southern New Hampshire and Merrimack right now.
Let's do some other favorites. What's your favorite TV show?
"Make It or Break It"
Movie?
"The Long Green Line''
Sports team?
New England Patriots
Athlete?
Madison Acton. She is on my club team. She also plays for Lincoln-Sudbury.
Band/artist?
Taylor Swift
Song?
"Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen
Subject in school?
English
