Athlete Spotlight: Lakeland's Keira Gallagher Stands Out

YORKTOWN, N.Y.—Lakeland midfielder Keira Gallagher played four years of varsity field hockey, including this season, where she was one of the Hornets’ three senior captains, along with Gabby Santini and Anna Lemma.

Through 21 games, Gallagher was second on the Hornets in points (42) on the strength of 12 goals and 18 assists.

Gallagher was named All-Section and All-League last year as a junior and as a sophomore, earned All-League honors.

How old were you when you started playing field hockey and what got you started?

When I was 8 at the SOAC (Shrub Oak Athletic Club) clinic, but I started to get really involved with field hockey when I was 13 by going to tournaments and practicing more regularly.

What is your favorite thing about being on the Lakeland field hockey team?

Is that it feels like a family. Every day at practice I know I will make a fun memory.

What is your favorite team activity or pre- or post-game ritual?

My favorite pre-game ritual is giving everyone high fives and hyping each other up when we are announced. It helps to get us excited and ready for the game.

Who has been your biggest role model?

My biggest role model is my dad, he has taught me to never give up and to always give my best effort in everything I do.

Tell us one thing about yourself that not a lot of people know.

I am also a part of the LPPV (Lakeland/Panas/Putnam Valley) gymnastics team.

What do you plan to do after high school?

I am planning on going to college and studying early childhood education.

What’s your favorite sports team?

My favorite sports team is the Rangers because they always put on a good game that is fun to watch.

What is your favorite music to listen to while warming up for a game?

I like to listen to a bunch of different music before games. I’ll listen to anything someone plays.

If you could pick one place to visit on vacation that you’ve never been to, where would you go?

Hawaii, because I love going to the beach.

What would you say to a young athlete about trying out for the Lakeland field hockey team?

To definitely do it. It is a great environment where you will make so many great memories.