Kopacz Tabbed Senior Scholar Athlete

Fitchburg, Mass. – Senior Director of Athletics and Recreation Matthew Burke announced today that Nicole Kopacz (Tewksbury, Mass.) is the 2021 recipient of the annual Fitchburg State University Department of Athletics Female Senior Scholar Athlete of the Year Award for her academic achievements over her collegiate career.

Kopacz, a Biology/Health Sciences major has a 3.70 cumulative GPA while also being a member of the women' soccer team from 2016-2018 and the women's lacrosse team from 2017-2021. Academically the fifth year senior has been named to the IWLCA (Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches' Association) Zags Sports Division III Academic Honor Roll, the MASCAC All-Academic Team and is a member of the National College Athlete Honor Society (NCAHS).

"Nicole epitomizes what it means to be a Student-Athlete at Fitchburg State." Said Rick Terrio, head women's lacrosse coach. "She is one of the most dedicated, honest and hardworking young woman to come through the lacrosse program. Even with the cancellation of the season last year and the limited games we played this year, she never missed a beat, she gave 100% every game just like she does in the classroom."

On the pitch Kopacz has worn the Green and Gold for 107 contests. For the women's soccer team she registered 2 goals and 2 assists in 44 contests. She was the linchpin on defense for the Falcons women's lacrosse team for five seasons. In 63 appearances she recorded 26 points (21 goals, 5 assists) and ranks in the top ten all-time in groundballs, draw controls and caused turnovers. Nicole is a two-time member of the MASCAC All-Conference Team.