Buena Vista, VA - The Virginia Sports Information Directors (VaSID) released its annual postseason awards for the 2025 women's lacrosse season. Adding to an already historic freshman campaign, midfielder Makenzie Mickelsen of Southern Virginia University was voted as this season's rookie of the year.

The award considers nominated athletes from many of the best Division lll programs in the state of Virginia and is voted on by Sports Information Directors from those schools. Mickelsen's recognition puts her in elite company amongst many of the best players in the nation. She's the first Knight ever to garner the award.  

Mickelsen enjoyed the most prolific scoring season for a freshman in program history, tallying 50 goals while collecting over 100 draw controls, also a freshman record. Her performance helped the Knights to at least 10 wins for just the third time since the program's inception.

It's the second major award of the year for Mickelsen, who was named the USA South Rookie of the Year in addition to her first team all-conference nod. Head Coach Olivia Cope's promising freshman class combined for 105 goals in 2025, nearly half of the Knights' offensive output during the season.

With the future looking bright, a young and talented squad will continue preparation for next season during a lengthy off season.

For the most up-to-date details and information on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knightwlax on Instagram.