Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | Lacrosse
The highly ranked class includes six five-stars and one-four star and is ranked second on Inside Lacrosse
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The University of Florida Lacrosse Team added nine new Gators for the 2027-2028 on National Signing Day, Head Coach Amanda O'Leary announced on Wednesday.
Chloe Cassidy, Fiona Duncheskie, Cecilia Evans, Taylor Fique, Avery Fordham, Karis Hand, Jenna Obloj, Kinsley Pittler, and Lily Preston will join the Gators for the 2027-2028 academic year.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome this exceptionally talented group to the Florida Gators lacrosse family!" Head Coach Amanda O'Leary said. "These young women embody the character, competitive spirit, and commitment to excellence that define our program. Their passion for the game, drive to succeed, and desire to compete at the highest level make this class truly special. We look forward to the impact they will make as we continue to build on our tradition of excellence. The future of Gator Lacrosse is bright, and we could not be more proud to welcome them to Gainesville!"
This recruiting class is ranked second on Inside Lacrosse and features six five-stars and one four-star. The six five-star players are the most in 2027 recruiting class and give the Gators back-to-back years with six incoming five-star players.
Florida Lacrosse Signees
The 2027-2028 Gators
Chloe Cassidy – Chevy Chase, Md. – Attack – 5'4"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because I immediately felt a connection with the coaches, the girls on the team, and the overall atmosphere. I loved the campus and everything the school has to offer, especially the student life. From the moment I visited, I could see myself being part of such a supportive and competitive program. Florida just felt like the perfect place for me to grow as both a player and person."
Quick Facts
Fiona Duncheskie – West Chester, Pa. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because of the competitive and energetic environment that Coach Mandee is known for having on her team. Not only is Florida the best balance of academics and athletics, but has an amazing student culture and community."
Quick Facts
Cecilia Evans – Sudbury, Mass. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? Excellent balance of high-level academics and elite athletics. Opportunity to be part of an incredible top Division I lacrosse program – ready to win a championship. A university that truly values and supports its student-athletes. Energetic, passionate coaches – positive but very competitive environment. Great teammates and a strong team culture. Warm weather, beautiful campus, and an exciting college atmosphere.
Quick Facts
Taylor Fique – Hampstead, Md. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? "I chose the University of Florida because it truly offers the best of everything, from outstanding academics and athletics to an amazing social atmosphere. From the moment I connected with the lacrosse staff and team, I felt welcomed and knew it was a community I wanted to be part of. I'm beyond excited to being this next chapter and be part of such an incredible program."
Quick Facts
Avery Fordham – Penfield, N.Y.– Midfield – 5'5"
Why Florida? "Florida is an all-around school who cares about their sports and has amazing academics. I love the team, coaches, and the culture that the coaches created there."
Quick Facts
Karis Hand – Penfield, N.Y. – Goalkeeper – 5'7"
Why Florida? "I picked Florida because it's a place where I could always see myself loving on and off the field. I Love the campus, the coaches, and the older players that have built a competitive team that works hard and supports each other in and outside of lacrosse."
Quick Facts
Jenna Obloj – West Islip, N.Y. – Midfielder – 5'5"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because it offers the perfect combination of high-level academics and competitive athletics. I loved the idea of continuing my lacrosse career at such a high-level while being part of a strong and spirited college community. From the moment I visited Florida, I knew that it was a place I would grow on and off the field, while creating lifelong friendships."
Quick Facts
Kinsley Pittler – Reisterstown, Md. – Midfielder – 5'5"
Why Florida? "Since I was in 7th grade, I knew I wanted to be a Gator. I chose the University of Florida because it offers everything I was looking for: competitive lacrosse, strong academics, and a school community I am excited to be part of. The team is so welcoming, and the coaches are so supportive. I wanted a place that would challenge me on the field and in the classroom while giving me opportunities to grow beyond my sport. UF felt like the right fit, and I can't wait to be a Gator!"
Quick Facts
Lily Preston – Glenwood, Md. – Midfielder/Draw Specialist – 5'8"
Why Florida? "Florida was my top choice because it combines elite academics with a competitive, championship-driven culture on the lacrosse field."
Quick Facts
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Chloe Cassidy, Fiona Duncheskie, Cecilia Evans, Taylor Fique, Avery Fordham, Karis Hand, Jenna Obloj, Kinsley Pittler, and Lily Preston will join the Gators for the 2027-2028 academic year.
"We are incredibly excited to welcome this exceptionally talented group to the Florida Gators lacrosse family!" Head Coach Amanda O'Leary said. "These young women embody the character, competitive spirit, and commitment to excellence that define our program. Their passion for the game, drive to succeed, and desire to compete at the highest level make this class truly special. We look forward to the impact they will make as we continue to build on our tradition of excellence. The future of Gator Lacrosse is bright, and we could not be more proud to welcome them to Gainesville!"
This recruiting class is ranked second on Inside Lacrosse and features six five-stars and one four-star. The six five-star players are the most in 2027 recruiting class and give the Gators back-to-back years with six incoming five-star players.
Florida Lacrosse Signees
| Name | Hometown | Position | High School | Club Team |
| Chloe Cassidy | Chevy Chase, Md. | Attack | Stone Ridge School | M&D Black |
| Fiona Duncheskie | West Chester, Pa. | Midfield/Attack | Bishop Shanahan HS | Philly Blast |
| Cecilia Evans | Sudbury, Mass. | Midfield | Dexter Southfield | Laxachusetts Black |
| Taylor Fique | Hampstead, Md. | Midfield | Manchester Valley HS | M&D Black |
| Avery Fordham | Penfield, N.Y. | Midfield | Penfield HS | Aces Elite |
| Karis Hand | Penfield, N.Y. | Goalkeeper | Penfield HS | Aces Elite |
| Jenna Obloj | West Islip, N.Y. | Midfield | West Islip HS | LI Jesters |
| Kinsley Pittler | Reisterstown, Md. | Defense | St. Paul's School for Girls | M&D Black |
| Lily Preston | Glenwood, Md. | Midfield/Draw | McDonogh | Hero's Green |
The 2027-2028 Gators
Chloe Cassidy – Chevy Chase, Md. – Attack – 5'4"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because I immediately felt a connection with the coaches, the girls on the team, and the overall atmosphere. I loved the campus and everything the school has to offer, especially the student life. From the moment I visited, I could see myself being part of such a supportive and competitive program. Florida just felt like the perfect place for me to grow as both a player and person."
Quick Facts
- No. 26 ranked recruit in the Class of 2027 and a five-star on Inside Lacrosse
- 2024, 2025, and 2026 All-Independent School League (ISL)
- 2026 ISL regular season and post season leading point scorer
- 2026 Team Captain and team MVP
- 2025 All-Met Honorable Mention
- 2025 Best in Class Standout
- 2025 HHH Committed Showcase All-Star
Fiona Duncheskie – West Chester, Pa. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because of the competitive and energetic environment that Coach Mandee is known for having on her team. Not only is Florida the best balance of academics and athletics, but has an amazing student culture and community."
Quick Facts
- No. 20 ranked recruit in the class of 2027 and a five-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse. Earned an 87 scout evaluation score at the High School Nationals.
- "Duncheskie made quite the impression early on. Her flashy offensive play combined with IQ and power made her nearly unstoppable. She needs only the slightest amount of space to fire off a shot that stings the net and leaves defenders at a loss." – Inside Lacrosse
- 2026 All-Chest-Mont League First Team
- 2026 USA Lacrosse Magazine High School All-American
- 2026 USA U19 National Team Roster
- 2025 and 2026 Team Offensive MVP
- 2025 All-Chest-Mont League Honorable Mention
- 2025 USA U17 National Team Roster
- 2025 Best in Class Standout and Top Performer
Cecilia Evans – Sudbury, Mass. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? Excellent balance of high-level academics and elite athletics. Opportunity to be part of an incredible top Division I lacrosse program – ready to win a championship. A university that truly values and supports its student-athletes. Energetic, passionate coaches – positive but very competitive environment. Great teammates and a strong team culture. Warm weather, beautiful campus, and an exciting college atmosphere.
Quick Facts
- No. 6 ranked recruit in class of 2027 and a five-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse. Earned an 85 scout evaluation score at the All-America Girls Lacrosse game.
- "Versatile attacker with a high-quality top dodge and an innate nose for the cage, plus lockdown instincts on defense. Her play recognition is elite — she reads plays before they develop, generates timely interceptions and anticipates slides to create turnovers and quick breaks. A cornerstone of the draw unit, she consistently secures possessions. Scrappy and competitive every play; her speed and athleticism amplify excellent stick skills." – Inside Lacrosse
- 2026 First Team All-NESAC
- 2026-2027 Captain
- 2026 Prep Cup Finalists
- Best In Class Standout
- 2025 Committed Games All-Star
- 2025 USA Women's Lacrosse National Tournament Most Outstanding Player
- 2024, 2025, and 2026 USA Lacrosse National Team Development Program
- Also played soccer in high school
Taylor Fique – Hampstead, Md. – Midfield – 5'6"
Why Florida? "I chose the University of Florida because it truly offers the best of everything, from outstanding academics and athletics to an amazing social atmosphere. From the moment I connected with the lacrosse staff and team, I felt welcomed and knew it was a community I wanted to be part of. I'm beyond excited to being this next chapter and be part of such an incredible program."
Quick Facts
- No. 17 ranked recruit in the class of 2027 and a five-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse. 90 scout evaluation score at the ILWomen Summer ID Experience in July 2025.
- 2026 CMSportsNet and Carroll County Times Lacrosse Player of the Year
- 2026 USA Lacrosse Magazine High School Academic All-American
- 2025 & 2026 Lacrosse State Championship
- 2024, 2025, 2026 Lacrosse First Team All-County
- 2024, 2025, 2026 USA Lacrosse Magazine High School All-American
- Played high school basketball and field hockey
- 2024, 2025, 2026 Field Hockey First Team All-County
- 2026 Basketball All-County First Team
Avery Fordham – Penfield, N.Y.– Midfield – 5'5"
Why Florida? "Florida is an all-around school who cares about their sports and has amazing academics. I love the team, coaches, and the culture that the coaches created there."
Quick Facts
- No. 4 ranked recruit in the class of 2027 and a five-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse.
- 2026 Penfield Girls Lacrosse MVP
- 2025 and 2026 All-Tournament Team
- 2025 Class A New York State Champions
- Best in Class Standout
- 2026 USA Lacrosse U19 National Team Roster
Karis Hand – Penfield, N.Y. – Goalkeeper – 5'7"
Why Florida? "I picked Florida because it's a place where I could always see myself loving on and off the field. I Love the campus, the coaches, and the older players that have built a competitive team that works hard and supports each other in and outside of lacrosse."
Quick Facts
- Class A All-Tournament Team
- Section V Tournament MVP
- 2025 and 2026 Sectional Champions
- 2025 State Champions
- 2026 NILLY Lacrosse Attendee
- Junior Open Showcase Attendee
- HHH Committed Games Attendee
Jenna Obloj – West Islip, N.Y. – Midfielder – 5'5"
Why Florida? "I chose Florida because it offers the perfect combination of high-level academics and competitive athletics. I loved the idea of continuing my lacrosse career at such a high-level while being part of a strong and spirited college community. From the moment I visited Florida, I knew that it was a place I would grow on and off the field, while creating lifelong friendships."
Quick Facts
- No. 44 ranked recruit in the class of 2027 and a four-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse. Earend an 81 scout evaluation score and the Best in Class Showcase in Oct. 2024
- 2025 and 2026 NYSSWA Class B Second Team
- All-Division
- All-County
- IW Women Tournament MVP
- Lax by the Sea First Place
Kinsley Pittler – Reisterstown, Md. – Midfielder – 5'5"
Why Florida? "Since I was in 7th grade, I knew I wanted to be a Gator. I chose the University of Florida because it offers everything I was looking for: competitive lacrosse, strong academics, and a school community I am excited to be part of. The team is so welcoming, and the coaches are so supportive. I wanted a place that would challenge me on the field and in the classroom while giving me opportunities to grow beyond my sport. UF felt like the right fit, and I can't wait to be a Gator!"
Quick Facts
- No. 40 ranked recruit in the class of 2027 and a five-star recruit on Inside Lacrosse.
- 2026-2027 Lacrosse Team Captain
- 2026 New Balance All America Team Selection and Champion
- 2026 USA U19 Team Combine Invitee
- 2025 Inside Lacrosse Five-Star Recruit
- 2024 IAAM Champion
- 2024 Under Armour 150 MVP
Lily Preston – Glenwood, Md. – Midfielder/Draw Specialist – 5'8"
Why Florida? "Florida was my top choice because it combines elite academics with a competitive, championship-driven culture on the lacrosse field."
Quick Facts
- Earned a 92 scout evaluation grade at the ILWomen ID Experience in Oct. 2025
- 2025 and 2026 IAAM All "A" Conference Team
- 2025 and 2026 Team MVP
- 2025 and 2026 All County Team
- National Society of High School Scholars Member since 2024
- 2026 Vail Lacrosse Shootout Tournament Champions
- 2026 Vail Lacrosse Shootout All-Tournament Team
- 2023 NGLL National Championship
- 2022 USA National Championship
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