Zoe Bye ’24 is a four-year Senior from Greenwich, Connecticut. She is co-captain of Girls Varsity Lacrosse and a member of Girls Varsity Soccer.
The lacrosse team finished the 2024 season 14-1, winning the Founders League Championship for the third year in a row on May 22. The team closed the season ranked 10th in the nation by USA Lacrosse Magazine.
Bye’s co-captain Etta Coburn ’24 said, “Zoe always brings competitive energy to practice and games that help not only herself but the team as a whole.”
How did you start playing lacrosse?
I’ve had a stick in my hand from a very young age, because my brother, Zach Bye ’23, played lacrosse. I started playing club lacrosse in 6th grade. After that, I played for a club team called the Long Island Yellow Jackets, so I traveled frequently. Under Coach Tracy Weiner, we were able to win big lacrosse events, including U.S. Lacrosse Nationals.
What are your favorite things about playing lacrosse at the school?
My favorite thing about Girls Varsity Lacrosse is the girls. The team changes from year to year, so playing with a different team dynamic every year makes it fun. My favorite memory is winning against Nobles early on this season, because we gained a lot of confidence, and we were able to start the season off strong. Last year, Nobles was one of the few teams we lost to, so being able to beat them this year was amazing. I also loved the end-of-year Boathouse dinner we had as a team.
Why did you commit to Princeton?
A notable influence on my decision was Head Coach of Girls Varsity Soccer Mrs. Missy Wolff. I am also a strong believer in the “injury rule,” [which encourages athletes to consider whether they would be happy at a school even if they were not playing their sport]. Even if I was injured and unable to play lacrosse at Princeton, I would still enjoy attending the school. As a defender, I think it will benefit me a lot that Princeton head lacrosse coach, Jenn Cook, is a defensive coach. When I visited Princeton, the team was very welcoming. I know Jami MacDonald ’22, who plays there now, and she showed me around.
What is one piece of advice you have for younger players?
Soak up every minute, because your time at the school will go by really fast. Connect with as many people as you can, because the relationships you make at the school are long-lasting.
