Virginia Begins Healing Process After Tragedy
For the first time in almost two weeks, the Lady Cavaliers took the field to play in the first round of the NCAA tournament. This time, however, was different. After the death of teammate, Yeardley Love, the university considered cancelling the rest of the season, but instead, the team decided to dedicate the rest of their season to their fallen teammate.
From the moment the whistle blew in the game versus Towson, it was apparent that the Virginia team was playing for more than a victory, and it took all they had to get that win. With a final score of 14-12, Virginia will advance to the semi-finals. According to UVA Lacrosse player Marye Kellerman, “We want to make our team advance as far as possible so we can stay together and we want to do it for Yeardley. This is what she would want.”
The Towson team wore armbands to honor Love, and the Towson senior parents wore Virginia colors. The Virginia men’s team was also there to support their team, wearing t-shirts that said One Love. At the end of the game, Love’s mother and sister were given the game ball, and the team held up signs that said No. 1, a tribute to Love.
An emotional day, for both ends of the field. But for Virginia, this win started the long healing process. Virginia will play UNC for the semi-finals in their quest to win the national championship for their One Love, Yeardley.
