A three-year starter on defense for the Springfield College women’s lacrosse team, Bridget Thibodeau played an integral role in a record-setting run for the Pride this spring. Springfield fielded one of the top defensive units in the nation, finished 16-6 overall, and made its deepest run in the NCAA Division 3 tournament. The Pride yielded 6.48 goals per game after allowing 5.91 a year ago, the fourth-lowest total in Division 3. Their season ended with a 12-10 loss to Catholic University in the third round of the tournament at Cortland State. Their 3-2 second-round victory over Bates marked the lowest goal total in the 36-year history of the NCAA Division 3 lacrosse championships. An elementary education major, Thibodeau was second on the team in ground balls with 45.
Q. That 3-2 win in the second round doesn’t sound much like a lacrosse score.
A. It was a battle of defenses and came down to the last 30 seconds. We scored with six minutes to play to make it 3-2 and we had to hold them off. We had the ball with two minutes left and were stalling and ended up losing it and they had a free possession shot with 30 seconds left. Our goalie saved it and I ended up getting it and then we lost it again. We got the ball back with three seconds left and there was a foul call and time ran out. It was crazy. Everyone was all smiles and freaking out. It was extremely intense and exciting, one of the funnest games I’ve ever played in.
Q. Did the defense pick up where you left off last year?
A. Last year we had one of the top five defenses in the country for a long time running and lost some seniors who were real important to that unit. We were able to shift some things around and move a couple of people and pretty much keep the same results with the defense. This was my best year by far.
Q. What was your role this season?
A. I took on a new leadership role as the only senior on the defensive unit that had a couple of freshmen. When things go wrong, we break it down and talk after every goal that’s scored.
Q. And the best part of your game?
A. Definitely, communication. I come from a big family and we’re all pretty loud and I have a loud voice that carries. When we initiate our defense in the game we yell, “fire.’’ I live near the field with some friends and when they’re home they say you can hear me yelling “fire’’ through the whole game. I also have a positive personality and I think I can keep people motivated and cool through the game.
Q. Did you have to alter your graduation plans?
A. The school’s graduation was the day [May 15] we played Bates so we had a graduation for our seniors the next day. It was really special.
Q. What’s next?
A. I ended up doing my practicum this semester and with lacrosse, it was very busy. I don’t have a job yet and I plan to move back home and look for a coaching job in the area and for a job as an elementary school teacher.
Q. Do you plan to give yourself a graduation present?
A. Unfortunately, my bank account has kind of run dry senior year. If I was to give myself one it would be a whole new wardrobe for teaching. A lot of the clothes I own are t-shirts and sports shorts I’ve collected over the years. I need to have a more professional wardrobe for when, hopefully, I get a job.
Q. Best piece of advice you’ve ever received from a coach?
A. Probably just to never give up no matter how tough the road is. Always keep pushing and going forward 100 percent. You never know what game will be your last. Give your all to everything you do.
Q. What are you doing when you’re not practicing, playing or studying?
A. I really like to hang out with friends. I also like to work with kids and love babysitting. Sports have always been my thing and I love to stay active. Going to the gym and playing sports with my friends have always been my passion.
ALLEN LESSELS
For full interview go to bostonglobe.com/north.
