Makenzie Staffordsmith

Meet Makenzie! From Jackson, New Jersey, Makenzie is a dedicated lacrosse coach who has been deeply influenced by sports throughout her life.

Since the 3rd grade, Makenzie has been immersed in the world of sports, starting with lacrosse. While she also enjoyed field hockey from 6th grade onwards, it was lacrosse that truly captured her heart. From her early years through college, lacrosse remained her steadfast passion. Makenzie’s competitive journey kicked off in 6th grade with T3 Elite, a travel lacrosse team, where she honed her skills. In high school, she excelled as a three-sport athlete, participating in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse. Her leadership qualities shone brightly as she earned captain roles in field hockey and lacrosse, and accolades like the Marine Corps Most Distinguished Athlete award for lacrosse her senior year.

Transitioning to Fairleigh Dickinson University, Makenzie continued to thrive on the lacrosse field, playing a pivotal role in the team’s offense. Her commitment and sportsmanship were recognized with a spot on the All MAC Sportsmanship Team during her senior year. Even after college, Makenzie’s love for lacrosse endured as she embarked on a coaching journey. Makenzie coaches for All Lax Select and Good Sports lacrosse, recently became the head varsity coach at Ocean Township High School. Her coaching skills were acknowledged with the Coach Of The Year title in her rookie season at Ocean.

Outside of coaching, Makenzie is pursuing her passion for education, working as a paraprofessional while undergoing the alternate route program to become a teacher in New Jersey. Amidst her busy schedule, she finds motivation in her personal fitness journey through her Peloton rides and workouts. Recently celebrating her 1200th ride milestone, Makenzie finds joy in the competitiveness and accountability that Peloton offers, earning badges and conquering monthly challenges.

Makenzie’s story is a testament to the profound impact sports can have on one’s life. Not only does she share her love for sports to the teams she coaches, but she also inspires others through her dedication and perseverance, both on and off the field. Get inspired by Makenzie’s journey and read more below!

Q: What sports did you play growing up?

I did cheer, dance and lacrosse when I was in elementary school. In 4th grade dance practice and lacrosse practice were on the same days at the same time and I had to choose one so I picked lacrosse and the rest is history! I started playing field hockey when I started middle school! Basketball I played my senior year of high school for fun.

Q:Was there anything that made you hesitant about starting your sport(s)?

No!

Q: What female athletes (or any athletes) did you look up to?

Growing up I always looked up my older cousins Tyler and Austin who played sports. They taught me how to play lacrosse before I was old enough to join a rec program! They would always challenge me to be better and they took the time to teach me how to play. I always thought was really cool since I was the little cousin and they would let me play with them.

Q: What is your favorite memory associated with sports?

My favorite sports memory is when I scored my 100th goal in high school. It was the last game of the season and we were playing our town rival. Entering the game I was 5 goals away from 100. Everyone on my team was working extremely hard to do anything they could to give me the opportunity to accomplish this goal of mine. There was under 10 minutes left in the game and I still needed 2 goals I ended up getting a yellow card so I had to go out of the game for a few minutes I was panicked on the sideline. I went back in the game and ended up getting one quick goal and eventually before time expired I scored the last goal I needed. everyone ran onto the field with posters and balloons. It was truly the best feeling ever and I wouldn’t have been able to do without the support of my coaches and teammates. It was truly a team effort and something I will cherish forever.

Q: How has playing sports helped shape your life?

Playing sports has truly made me a better person. In everything I do in my life I use the we not me mentality. It’s about everyone not just yourself. I have learned to work with others, become a leader and the importance of communication. These are all things I try and instill in the athletes I coach now. Without sports I don’t know where I would be, my entire life revolves around them. As a coach I have the privilege to help coach the next generation of athletes and I don’t take that responsibility lightly. Its so important to help teach these kids that when they work hard and together as a team anything is possible.