McGann-Mercy Student Signs Letter Of Intent to Play Tennis At Wagner

Bishop McGann-Mercy Diocesan High School senior Cassidy Lessard will be taking her talents on the tennis courts to Wagner College.

Cassidy, who lives in Jamesport, has accepted an athletic and academic scholarship to play tennis at Wagner College, a NCAA Division 1 school located on Staten Island, New York.

Cassidy, along with her parents, Kelly and Dave, signed her letter of intent on Wednesday during a commitment ceremony held at the McGann-Mercy chapel.

“I chose Wagner for two reasons," Cassidy said. "First, the tennis team and coaching staff are a perfect fit for me and second, for their excellent nursing program." 

Cassidy hopes to pursue nursing as a career.

The teen, who was originally encouraged to play tennis by her parents, first picked up a racket when she was just five years old.

During her four years in the 1st singles position on the McGann-Mercy Varsity team, she achieved an overall record of 60-12, which secured her a League record.  

“Cassidy has had a tremendous impact on our program," Michael Clauberg, varsity tennis coach, said. "We could always count on her to come up with the big win under pressure. Her athleticism, work ethic and leadership as a captain is a big reason why we have been top 10 on Long Island for the past two years.”

In addition, Cassidy has also received All-County honors and was awarded the Suffolk Zone Leadership Award. 

Beyond her athletic abillities, Cassidy is a dedicated student, earning an overall grade point average of 94.2 percent.  

“Cassidy is a great student athlete who continuously strives for excellence in both tennis and academics. She truly is a great kid who is going to do well in life," said John Lonardo, director of athletics at McGann-Mercy.