Biography:
Kylie Ohlmiller, born on September 24, 1996, is an American professional lacrosse player known for her exceptional skills and contributions to the sport. She has made a significant impact as a player, setting various records and receiving recognition for her achievements.
Raised in Islip, New York, Ohlmiller attended Islip High School, where she became a standout athlete. Despite missing her freshman year due to an injury, she displayed remarkable talent and was named team captain during her sophomore, junior, and senior years. Ohlmiller scored over 250 points and was recognized as a two-time Academic All-American. Her exceptional performance continued in her senior year, where she scored an impressive 112 goals and received the prestigious honor of being named a US Lacrosse All-American. Alongside lacrosse, Ohlmiller also participated in volleyball and basketball during her high school years.
It was during high school that Ohlmiller witnessed the 2012 NCAA championship game between Northwestern and Syracuse, held at Stony Brook University’s Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium, alongside her future college teammate Courtney Murphy. This experience left a lasting impression on Ohlmiller, fueling her passion for the sport.
Despite not receiving much attention from power conference schools, Ohlmiller’s talent caught the eye of Stony Brook head coach Joe Spallina. Recognizing her potential, Spallina believed she had what it took to become a standout player. Before Ohlmiller even began her freshman season, Spallina confidently stated that she would be a strong candidate for the Tewaaraton Award, one of the highest individual honors in college lacrosse.
Ohlmiller’s college career at Stony Brook University started with a bang. In her very first game against USC, she recorded two assists, showcasing her playmaking ability. She continued to impress throughout the season, earning several accolades, including being named America East Rookie of the Week six times. Ohlmiller’s standout performance against the formidable No. 5 Northwestern earned Stony Brook their first-ever victory over a top-five team, further solidifying her place as a rising star in the sport.
During her freshman season, Ohlmiller accumulated an exceptional 42 goals and 44 assists, totaling 86 points. Building on her success, she entered her sophomore year with heightened expectations. Ohlmiller surpassed all expectations, scoring 91 points, the fifth-highest in the country, and recording 47 assists, the fourth-most. These outstanding numbers earned her recognition as one of the top players in college lacrosse, earning her the IWLCA Player of the Week award and further establishing her as a force to be reckoned with.
Ohlmiller’s impact continued to grow as she progressed through her college career. She set multiple records, including the most career points in Division I history with 498 and the most career assists with 246. Her remarkable achievements earned her the title of the face of women’s lacrosse by The New York Times and the moniker a human highlight reel by ESPN. Ohlmiller’s accomplishments have unquestionably elevated the sport and paved the way for aspiring young players.
Beyond her college career, Ohlmiller’s talent and dedication led her to the professional lacrosse scene. She was selected first overall by the Boston Storm in the 2018 United Women’s Lacrosse League (UWLX) draft and later by the New York Fight in the Women’s Professional Lacrosse League (WPLL). As a member of the United States women’s national lacrosse team since 2017, Ohlmiller has showcased her skills on the international stage, representing her country with pride.
Off the field, Ohlmiller has signed endorsement deals with New Balance and Brine Lacrosse, emphasizing her influence in the lacrosse community. Additionally, she founded KO17 Lacrosse, an organization dedicated to lacrosse training that offers camps, clinics, and online instruction. Through her organization, Ohlmiller is actively involved in developing the next generation of lacrosse players and promoting the sport’s growth.
Kylie Ohlmiller’s remarkable journey, from a high school standout to a record-breaking college player and influential professional athlete, has not only shaped her own legacy but has also made a lasting impact on the sport of women’s lacrosse. Her accomplishments and dedication to the game have cemented her position as one of the most influential figures in women’s lacrosse, inspiring athletes of all ages to pursue their dreams on and off the field.
Awards:
– Record for most career points in Division I history with 498
– Record for most career assists in Division I history with 246