Marie McCool has won everywhere she's played — from New Jersey high school power Moorestown, to North Carolina to the WPLL's Brave and to Team USA. Get to know her personality with our Give and Go feature from the September/October issue of US Lacrosse Magazine.
Who’s your favorite athlete?
Serena Williams. While dominating on the court, Serena also does a phenomenal job fighting for equality and giving back to the community. She is such an incredible role model for millions of girls and women worldwide.
What are your pregame rituals?
I always have to perfect my game-day hair: braid on the top of my head into a big bun with a headband. Taylor Cummings loves when my buns are big and floppy!
If you owned a boat, what would you name it?
Sea Goals :)
What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve overcome?
Getting cut from the U.S. training team. I didn’t think I would ever make the 18-player roster that would compete the following year in the World Cup. One year later, I was standing next to 17 incredible people wearing a gold medal. Never give up on your goals.
If you could marry a celebrity, who would it be?
Zac Efron, hands down. Been a fan since the “High School Musical” days. And have you seen “The Greatest Showman?”
What is your favorite hobby?
I’m a huge foodie. I love cooking, searching for new recipes on Pinterest and finding new restaurants to go to.
What’s one thing you can’t live without?
My shoe collection. My New Balance shoes, boots, wedges, sandals — you name it. I have an absurd amount of shoes. Someone told me I should have a one-pair-in, one-pair-out policy. Not happening! I actually ordered two new pairs of shoes this morning.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I wish I could learn how to sing. I love watching “The Voice” and “American Idol,” and I am always so jealous of the contestants’ abilities. I sing in the car and love karaoke and pretend I’m good, but my singing really needs some work.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Carne asada tacos topped with avocado, pico and chipotle mayo with a side of refried beans and Mexican rice. I love Mexican, and this meal is pretty well balanced. I have my protein, carbs and veggies.
What type of animal would best describe your style of play?
My high school coach always compared me to a gazelle. As a midfielder, I’m someone who likes to run with space in the midfield and in transition.
OVERTIME (from Stony Brook/USA coach and Lizards GM Joe Spallina)
Any sport, any level: If you could coach one game for any team in the world, who would it be?
The Philadelphia Sixers, especially Joel Embid.
DOUBLE OVERTIME (from @akwesasne.ride.lacrosse on Instagram)
How do you prepare mentally for an important match? What grounds you?
I like to use visualization and imagery. This helps me set goals, stay motivated, visualize successful outcomes and boost my confidence.
Pose a question for our next subject.
If there was a sixth WPLL team, what would you name it and why?