Massachusetts high school lacrosse star killed in boat crash ‘couldn’t wait’ to start college career

A 17-year-old Massachusetts lacrosse player killed in a boat crash on Cape Cod had been eager to continue her athletic career in college before her life was tragically cut short over the weekend.

Sadie Mauro, a rising star at Dover-Sherborn High School and Mass Elite lacrosse club, described herself on her recruitment page as a “very coachable player” and eager “defender/midfielder” coming on the heels of her team’s second consecutive victory at the state championship during the 2021-2022 school year.

“Working as a team to achieve these successes, and being a starter this season has been extremely rewarding and motivating. I can’t wait to continue my athletic and academic career collegiately,” Mauro wrote as she prepared to meet recruiters during her senior year.

Her work appeared to pay off as she was committed to playing lacrosse at Division III powerhouse Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, according to her LinkedIn page.

On Friday night, a boat Mauro was riding in crashed into a jetty in Sesuit Harbor, ejecting her into the waters of Cape Cod around 9:30 p.m.

Coast Guard and local dive teams recovered the promising young athlete’s body from a nearby beach 90 minutes later.

Search crews sent out dive teams to search for debris from the boat on Saturday following the crash, which involved six people.

Police have not said if charges will be filed as the investigation into the fatal crash — which left another 17-year-old in the hospital after suffering a head laceration — continues.

“Sadie’s smile could light up a room, she had a heart of gold and the sweetest spirit,” Dover-Sherborn High School Principal John Smith said in a letter to the community following Mauro’s death.

“She had such a strong sense of self and had a love for adventure and anything outdoors. A hardworking student and great athlete, Sadie was genuine and effortlessly kind,” he added.

Dover-Sherborn Public Schools Superintendent Beth McCoy echoed the sentiment, saying in a statement: “The Dover-Sherborn community is strong and is known for its strength and resiliency in the face of unimaginable tragedy. We will continue to support each other in the days and weeks ahead as we surround Sadie’s family, friends and loved ones with care and love.”

The Dover-Sherborn High School will be open briefly on Monday for students to hold a vigil for Mauro, with the school offering counseling services to students, officials said.