Former Laney lacrosse player Elizabeth Peasley sets NCAA Division III goal record

Former Laney lacrosse player Elizabeth Peasley made history on April 12, setting the NCAA Division III women's lacrosse goal record with Averett University.

Peasley netted her 371st goal as the Cougars defeated Guilford College 19-1, setting a record she never thought was possible.

"When I was younger, I didn't think anything like this would happen, so it was really overwhelming," Peasley said. "It was a really nice feeling, and my team put their bodies on the line to get me there."

VOTE NOW: A pitching masterclass or a batting showcase: Who's your pick for Athlete of the Week?

WILMINGTON AREA TOP PERFORMERS: Spring break didn't slow down these athletes

BOSTON MARATHON 2023 How did Wilmington-area runners do in the 2023 Boston Marathon?

Peasley scored nine goals against Guilford, picking up the record in the game's dying moments. Averett lacrosse coach Erin Murphy has seen Peasley's game improve over the years.

"She is easily one of the most talented and hard-working players that I've ever met," Murphy said after the game. "Her lacrosse IQ is so high, and she has a great team mentality."

The midfielder has remained consistent throughout college, scoring at least 60 goals in five of her six years at Averett. However, injuries have always been a concern, holding her to just six appearances during her sophomore season.

"I've had so many injuries ... getting over those injuries is hard, and it's every single year," she said.

Peasley had a solid high school career at Laney, starting all four years and recording 136 goals and 54 assists. However, she says her skillset has increased dramatically since high school.

"In high school, I wasn't as good as I am now," she said. "Each year, I set goals for myself, so it was really exciting to finally finish my goal and end my career on a high note."

The graduate student has reached her final season of eligibility with the Cougars and plans to pursue a career in law enforcement after college.

While Peasley has had a highly efficient college career, she gives all the credit to those around her.

"I'd like to make sure it's known that everyone who's ever played with me set this record too. It's not just me, it's everyone," she said.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: NCAA Lacrosse: Averett's Elizabeth Peasley has Division III goal record