Kate Draddy didn't need a city or a zip code to define home. For the William & Mary lacrosse senior, home has always been where her people are—family, teammates, friends who feel like both. "Home is just where my family is," Draddy said. "It's less about the place and more about the people you're around."
 
That mindset has carried her from New York to Charlotte and, eventually, to Williamsburg, where she's built a life she's proud of—one rooted in connection, growth, and gratitude. As she prepares to close out her collegiate career, Draddy is reflecting on the places and people that have shaped her, the sport that's grounded her, and the lessons she'll carry into life after graduation.
 
"I wouldn't trade Williamsburg for the world," she said. "It's been great to me these past four years, and now as a senior, it's kind of crazy to think this chapter is closing. Ultimately, Williamsburg feels like family."


 
The Gift of a Twin
 
One of the defining relationships in Draddy's life is with her twin sister, Siobhan. The two grew up playing the same sport, pushing each other to be better, and learning what it means to share—time, space, victories, and setbacks. "Being a twin has honestly been one of the greatest gifts of my life," Draddy said. "She's my best friend. It's someone you get more excited about their successes than your own."
 
While there was a competitive edge growing up, that dynamic has shifted as they've matured and gone to different colleges. "We're each other's biggest cheerleaders," Draddy said. "The time we do have together is short, but it's made us even closer."
 
The sisters plan to live together again after graduation—a full-circle moment that speaks to the strength of their bond. "She's someone I would not trade for the world," Draddy said. "I'm glad we've gotten to have all these years together and many more to come."
 
From the Field to Finance
 
At William & Mary, Draddy found her academic footing in the business school, majoring in finance. She put that passion into practice during an internship in New York City with Jefferies in their private credit group, an experience she called "challenging" and "invaluable." "It was a way for me to apply what I've learned to real-world situations and real companies," she said. "I learned so much about what I'm capable of and how to deal with different dynamics."
 
She credits lacrosse for preparing her for the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of finance. "My athletic experience taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle pressure," Draddy said. "It set me up very well for the summer." She's returning to the firm after graduation and is eager to build on the relationships and skills she developed. "There's a level of comfort in knowing what to expect," she said. "I'm excited for the hustle and bustle that is New York City."
 
Lessons in Leadership and Legacy
 
As Draddy enters her final season, perspective is everything for the team captain. She and her fellow seniors are determined to make the most of every moment and to leave the program better than they found it. "When they say it flies, they're not kidding," she said. "We're really trying to soak it all in."
 
One of the most productive players in the program's history, Draddy is closing in on W&M's career draw controls record. The four-year starter is among the CAA's top players and consistently impacts the game in a positive way at both ends of the field, as she ranks among the Tribe's leaders in multiple statistical categories.
 
Her impact goes well beyond the stat sheet, however, and Draddy's style of leadership isn't about volume—it's about presence. "I'm not the most loud leader," she said. "I'm more behind the scenes and have a quiet presence. If someone thinks I'm a good teammate, that's the biggest reward." She emphasizes the importance of sharing, a value her parents instilled early on. "Sharing is what being a team player is about," Draddy said. "I try to get to know my teammates on a personal level, understand what they need on and off the field, and be someone they can come to."
 
As the end of her college career approaches, Draddy is focused on gratitude—for her family, her team, and the place that became home. "We love this place," she said. "We love the future of this program, and we just want the best for it."