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Crusader Chronicles
Shaun McGowan '03
By Janine Clifford-Murphy ‘79
Shaun McGowan admits that he has not always been a lacrosse star but you can hear the thrill in his voice when talks about his recent contract to play professionally.
How were you signed by the Long Island Lizards?
Ever since graduating from Holy Cross, I have found a way to keep playing lacrosse. I played in indoor leagues and tournaments and earlier this year got picked up as a free agent. The Lizards are one of 10 professional outdoor teams in the fast-growing Major League Lacrosse. Our season runs from the end of May through the first week of August. Basically it will be a fun summer job.
What do you think will be the most difficult aspect of your new job?
I'll have to adjust to the entertainment factor of the league. There will be more aggressive play, harder hits. Things that are usually penalties in other leagues will be allowed.
What's surprised you?
On the day I signed my contract, I was assigned to work at a clinic for kids. It was a surreal experience for me because I ended up signing my autograph on about 150 articles of clothing, shoes, sticks and balls: “Shaun McGowan #24.” I guess I'll need to keep a Sharpie with me, and I'll have to practice signing balls. They can be tricky.
How has Holy Cross influenced your career?
At Holy Cross I got the chance to play lacrosse right away. I drew a great deal of motivation from my coach at the time, Mike McCaffrey. And it was the best academic school for me. I loved the small classes, knowing so many people. It really prepared me for law school.
Law school, is that your “day job?”
Yes, I will graduate from St. John's University School of Law this June and I'll take the New York State Bar Exam this summer. Lacrosse will serve as a great outlet while I'm studying. The league is flexible; most players have other careers. I hope to be able to continue both lacrosse and law.
What is your favorite Holy Cross memory?
Senior year – working with a very close-knit team to beat Lafayette, 6 to 5, in the final minutes of the match. We hadn't had a victory over a Patriot League team in all my four years, so this was one to remember.