When Sofia joined Mount St. Mary’s women’s lacrosse team through Team IMPACT in January 2023, she didn’t just become part of a roster—she became part of a sisterhood. From the start, the entire team embraced Sofia with open arms, but it was teammates like Ella Curci who made her feel like more than a teammate. Ella made Sofia feel like family.
Sofia lives with intestinal motility disorder and POTS, which often require hospital stays and surgeries. But no matter what she was going through, the team never stopped showing up. Whether it was FaceTiming from practice when she couldn’t attend in person, planning a movie date to lift her spirits, or simply checking in just to say hello, their consistency and care meant everything. “These ladies made sure Sofia always felt included, even when she couldn’t physically be there,” her family shared. “They never let her feel left out.”
One of Sofia’s favorite memories was her signing day. It was a moment made even more unforgettable because it was planned on her birthday, turning it into a 2-in-1 celebration she’ll never forget. It was a moment of pure joy where she felt fully celebrated by the people she looks up to the most.
What makes this friendship so special is how genuine and lighthearted it is. Whether they’re laughing over something silly or just chatting during tough days, Ella always find a way to make Sofia feel better. That connection has made a lasting difference. “She doesn’t go to public school, so building friendships hasn’t been easy,” her family explained. “To say these ladies are her friends is an understatement. Sofia truly sees the Mount team as her people.”
Since joining Team IMPACT, the change in Sofia has been incredible. She’s more confident, more open, and finally feels like she belongs. Her family has watched her form real friendships and smile on even her hardest days—proof that this match is about so much more than sports.
Ella and her teammates, especially MK and Hailey, have gone above and beyond to make Sofia feel seen, supported, and loved. So when Team IMPACT began collecting nominations for Teammate of the Year, Sofia and her family didn’t hesitate. Ella was her choice.
Thanks to Mount St. Mary’s lacrosse and the unwavering love from her teammates, Sofia doesn’t just feel supported, she feels proud. She wears her Mount gear with honor and knows, without a doubt, that she’s part of something meaningful.