Two-way talent Dzierwa has All-Ohio season for St. Ursula
Jun. 22—St. Ursula lacrosse coach Paul Sieben has seen opposing goalkeepers have an unusual response to Josie Dzierwa unleashing a shot.
They get out of the way.
"When she came down the field to take a shot, goalies actually moved aside in the goal, because they were afraid of the power of her shot," Sieben said. "She has a powerful shot, more powerful than most high school girls."
Dzierwa utilized that shot a lot this spring. The St. Ursula junior finished the season with 72 goals, 11 assists, 68 groundballs, and 36 caused turnovers. She was named All-Ohio second team — the lone Toledo-area player to collect an all-state honor — and the Three Rivers Athletic Conference player of the year.
Dzierwa began her high school lacrosse career as a defender. As a freshman, she demonstrated the ability to intercept opponents' passes, maneuver down the field, and take a shot on goal.
Her defensive skill set combined with her shots on goal made it an easy decision for Sieben to move her to midfield.
Dzierwa was able to draw from her past experience and apply it to her new position.
"Being a midfielder, I need those skills as a defender, because if I'm not defending, I'm not helping my team at all," she said. "I need to have the skills of an attack and defense on midfield in order to make the team work and win games."
Dzierwa also competes on the St. Ursula volleyball and basketball teams.
Basketball and lacrosse have comparable movements, which has been a benefit.
"There are a lot of similarities in basketball with regard to the way you play defense and the way you mark up on your opponents and the way you create space and move to the goal," Sieben said. "They complement each other."
Off the field, Dzierwa was named an academic All-American and holds the title of class president.
She's the type of leader that will have a positive outlook and will be her teammates' cheerleader. Her caring personality combined with her determination on the field showed Sieben that Dzierwa has the potential to "carry the team on her back."
"She is a student of the game, whatever sport she plays, "Sieben said. "She's intense in her leadership, but as well, she's a servant leader. The players are willing to follow her, because they see the effort that she puts forth, and they emulate it."
Sieben said about five colleges have reached out to him about Dzierwa, though she is unsure if she wants to continue playing in college.
She didn't have the opportunity to play lacrosse her sophomore year — it was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic — and that'll make her senior season more memorable.
"I'm really hoping the senior season is going to be a really good season," Dzierwa said, "and I hope we end on a good note."
First Published June 21, 2021, 10:13am
