By John Orrell
Landmark Correspondent
HOLDEN — In a relatively quiet and unassuming way, Wachusett Regional High’s Rileigh Leary has become one of this region’s premier lacrosse players, a contention that is barely debatable. That opinion is buttressed by coaches and team supporters who have had the opportunity to observe her special talents on the pitch, which include the following: 200 career points,100 career goals, MA/RI Team 2 that competes at National USA tournament women’s lacrosse, Mid-Wach A MVP, Mid-Wach Team1 all-star, Coaches MVP and selection as team captain for the 2023-2024 season.
“Rileigh Leary is just one of those players you love to watch,” said Mountaineer head coach Jill Liposky. “From her footwork approaching the draw to her high-powered shots, every second she has the ball is thrilling to watch. Rileigh is an exceptional player who has a real understanding of the game. She is a key contributor to the midfield unit, winning over 115 draw controls and 52 ground balls this (past) season. Rileigh is a selfless player within the attacking unit, sharing nearly as many assists to goals (52G/56A). She brings passion, persistence and determination to every game. It’s a coach’s dream to have a player like her.”
“It means a lot to have her say that about me. She’s always been my biggest supporter,” Leary, a 2024 senior, said. “She does everything to see me succeed, and I have to thank her so much for everything she’s done for me.”
“It’s important to try and get the ball around,” Leary said in explaining her goals-to-assist record. “The drive is not always there, and a lot of times when I drive I see more defenders coming on to me, and it leaves my teammates wide open. I don’t even have to think about it. Passing comes first.”
“A lot of understanding of the game comes from watching it and playing it so much. It becomes easier to pick up. My team is so important to me. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve the accomplishments I did without my teammates by my side helping and supporting me.”
Leary, the youngest of eight children in her family, credits her siblings and parents for her achieving her accomplishments. In particular she thanks her dad, who has taken her to many events across the country to both observe and participate in elite level competition.
“All my siblings growing up played basketball, and I started playing young because they all played it,” Leary said. “I’d play with my brothers. Then I joined the Holden Youth League and the Wachusett League for lacrosse, then played club for a while.”
She competes for the Bay State Bullets club team.
“Growing up in my family, everything was a competition. Everybody played sports, and I just grew into it with them.
“My dad usually takes me when we have to travel. He’s always supported me with everything. He’s at every game and takes me to all of the practices. He’s my biggest supporter. I wouldn’t be able to do anything without him.”
Leary more than holds her own in terms of academics and community volunteering. She is a National Honor Society member and a coach of a first- and second-grade Wachusett lacrosse team. She hopes to compete in lacrosse when her Wachusett days conclude, and had already begun exploring recruiting opportunities this past spring. Those opportunities are likely to expand this fall. She is also a contributing member of the Wachusett Regional High girls’ varsity basketball squad. Leary is most proud of her WRHS days and contributions that will bring forth lifetime memories.
“I take a lot of pride in playing sports for Wachusett. I love my school,” she said with deep sincerity. “I’ve always taken a lot of pride watching the older girls play. To be able to come in my freshman year and put on a varsity jersey meant a lot. There’s a lot of pride beyond the name, and I really cherish that.”
