On the first anniversary of Marin’s passing, we asked everyone who ever had any opportunity to meet Marin to share their stories with us. Thank you, Colleen, for allowing us to share it with others.

How did you know Marin: Marin’s Second City Lacrosse Coach

I feel incredibly fortunate to have known Marin for so many years, but it was when Addie and I started Second City Girls that I really got to know Marin and she became one of our “OGs”— our affectionate nickname for the players on our original teams. From the very beginning, Marin was there with us, helping to shape the program we are so proud of today. Our goal was to bring back the sense of “team” to club sports, to watch the SC girls cheer each other on and form lasting friendships that extended beyond the field. Looking back, I’m not sure we could have achieved that vision without Marin. She embodied everything we were trying to build and she definitely rubbed off on her teammates.

One moment stands out so clearly in my mind. I remember attending a tournament with Marin’s team when we were struggling. Morale was low, and our subs on the sidelines were losing their energy. It was the last game of the day—hot, tiring, and we just weren’t playing well. We were looking for a spark, something to reignite the team’s spirit. And then Marin stepped up. She took the field and, without hesitation, jumped into the draw. It was like a collective sigh of relief spread through the team. The game shifted, our energy changed, and the smiles and cheers started coming back. That was Marin—our quiet leader, the calming presence, the one who always said “yes” when we needed it most. It may seem small, but as a coach, we love the players that are always the answer to our question. “Our middies are gassed – we need a middie sub… Marin!” “Oh man, our defense isn’t sliding, we need a strong defender… Marin!” “We’re not shooting enough, we need someone who’s not afraid to dodge to cage… Marin” “Shoot, I gotta run to the bathroom real quick, need someone to get the team started on warm ups… Marin!” You name it, Marin was the answer and always did with a smile on her face.

As an adult, I’ve always been in awe of Marin’s ability to stay positive and calm in the face of anything. Nothing was ever too big, too bad, or too difficult to overcome with her around. She brought balance, peace, and a can-do spirit to everyone around her. I’m so grateful for the impact she had on me personally, and on the SC community as a whole. Marin will always be an OG—forever part of the heart and soul of our team.

I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22. Thank you, Marin.