Katie DeSimone joins the Blue Devils after a stellar prep career at St. Anthony's High School. The Bay Shore, N.Y., native totaled 139 goals and 45 assists through three seasons prior to the COVID-19 pandemic canceling her senior season. She earned All-American honors as a sophomore and was recently named a senior All-American. DeSimone was also dubbed the CHSAA Player of the Year and named to the USA Today All U.S.A. Lacrosse Team as a junior.
Away from St. Anthony's, DeSimone was a member of the USA U-19 training team in 2018 and 2019. She also played in the Under Armour All-America Game all three years, winning the championship in 2017 and 2018. DeSimone was named to the Under Armour All-American All-Tournament Team in 2018 after winning the title.
In addition to her success on the lacrosse field, DeSimone was an accomplished tennis player, competing at the varsity level all four years. She was a state champion as a senior.
Meet Katie:
Why did you choose Duke? Duke is a prestigious school both academically and athletically. I know that Duke will help me reach my full potential in the classroom and on the field. The second I stepped on campus, I knew it was going to be my new home.
What was it like moving on campus in the midst of COVID-19? It was very exciting moving on to campus. We are so lucky to have such amazing people that helped us get here. Even masked up, it was still so much fun and definitely something to remember.
What has been your favorite moment of DWL thus far? I have had so many great moments here so far, it's so hard to just chose one! I would say my favorite is when we play dodgeball. It is so much fun and gets really competitive. I love it!!
Who is your roommate and what has been your favorite moment with them so far? Julia Schwasnick is my roommate. She's also from Long Island and is the best person ever. We never stop laughing and have made so many memories together. I really couldn't have asked for a better roommate. I would say my favorite memory is when our dishwasher broke in the middle of the night and when we woke up our entire kitchen was filled with soap. We laughed about it all morning
What has the transition from high school to college lacrosse been like? The adjustment has been going really well. College lacrosse is definitely a faster pace game and more physical, but my teammates have been so supportive in making the transition easier. The coaching staff has also been so amazing, helping me with everything that comes my way. I know I can go to them for anything and I am so lucky to be part of this incredible program!
Best lacrosse memory: Beating Manhasset in 2019.
Goals for your collegiate career: To become the best person I can be on and off the field, and to win a National Championship.
To be a part of the Duke Women's Lacrosse program is… a dream come true.
Favorite athlete: Saquan Barkley.
When did you start playing lacrosse? I started playing lacrosse in kindergarten. My brother is the one who put a stick in my hand and I always wanted to be like him so I started playing.
What do you plan to major in? Undecided but interested in Business
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions? I always braid my hair and eat a peanut butter and banana sandwich before every game. I also have to have skittles at halftime.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Doing something I love and helping others around me
Who has had the biggest impact on your life and why? My brothers have had the biggest impact on my life. Watching them grow up and seeing all the things they have accomplished is amazing. They have taught me so many life lessons and I couldn't have asked for better role models.
Hobbies: skiing, snowboarding, surfing, sailing
If you were to play another sport, what would it be? I would love to play tennis.
Interesting fact about yourself/hidden talent: I love to cook
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? Capri, Italy
Best advice you've ever received: Be you and always have fun
Her Favorite…
Movie: Parent Trap
TV Show: All-American
Book: 25 Hours a Day
Musician: Coldplay
Food: Peanut Butter
Color: Blue