"I guess Sarah embodies Harvard women's lacrosse: hardworking, aggressive, loyal and a great friend," Berkery added.

Leary keeps it in perspective.

"I am a perfectionist, but l also have to keep in mind that I am not going to stop every shot," Leary said. "You'll go crazy unless you can put the last shot behind you."

Leary attributes her success in part to her own attitude, but is quick to mention Kleinfelder and her teammates.

"Without a doubt, my teammates are some of the finest people I know," Leary said. "They are dedicated, and will put themselves on the line for you."

"Carole is the constant factor in our success over the years, and she doesn't get enough credit," Leary continued. "She is the best coach in the country, bar none, and gets the most out of her players.

"We may not always be the most talented team in the country, but we are always competitive."

Kleinfelder recognizes Leary's importance to the success of the team, which is currently ranked third in the nation.

"Sarah is critical this year more than ever, because we have a young defense. I also value her off the field leadership. She is a detail person, and follows up in a lot of ways people don't always see," said Kleinfelder.

"We have a lot of potential, but we really need to gel. The seniors and juniors have been to the national championship. It's our responsibility to bring the younger players along," said Leary.

An economics concentrator in Eliot House, Leary chose not to do a thesis.

"I am majoring in lacrosse," Leary said. "I have really enjoyed playing lacrosse at Harvard.