East County Athlete of the Week: Morgan Barton

Morgan Barton is a senior girls lacrosse player at Lakewood Ranch High. Barton, an attacker, is committed to Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia. She had 18 goals and nine assists in 17 games for the Mustangs last season. 

When did you start playing lacrosse?

I was 10. I played soccer before then, but I stopped because, well, I was 10. I got bored of it. I had some neighbors who played lacrosse, so I started watching some film of it and I thought it looked cool. I decided to try that instead and I've stuck with it ever since. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love my teams, both my high school team and my club team (LaxManiax). The sport creates a fun environment. I love how competitive it is. Even if I don't have a great day or a great game, I still love going out and being with everybody and competing. 

What is your best skill?

Reading the field. I can anticipate a lot of stuff before it happens and I know what I should be doing at a given time. I know how the defense is going to react. 

What have you been working to improve?

My speed and dodges. Those are the two most important things for attackers. This summer I have been doing a lot of sprints to improve those things. 

What is your favorite memory?

Last year at Lakewood Ranch we played Riverview High in a district tournament game. I got three goals. It was the first time I had done that in one game, and the Riverview goalie (Mia Rey) was actually on my club team, which made it even more fun. 

What made you want to commit to Berry College?

Last year was the year I decided I want to play in college, so I started going to camps, and through that I met the Berry coaches. I've been talking to them for the last year and when I went on my visit, I thought the campus was stunning. I loved it. The coaches are nice and welcoming. The facilities for lacrosse are so good. Plus, I want to major in environmental science and the school is perfect for that. I wanted a school that cares about their athletes, but also academics. 

What are your goals for the next high school season?

I want to get my goal count up. I haven't had as many as I'd like. And as a team, I want everyone to have more fun while they're playing and to play hard no matter what.

What is your favorite food?

I like burgers. I'll get them cooked medium with cheese on a plain bun. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I'll say "Gilmore Girls."

What are your hobbies?

Well, the classic Florida response is saying I like to go to the beach with my friends. But I also show cows through my school. That's one of my other hobbies. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Reading people's minds. I want to know what people are thinking. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Don't think too much about what you're doing (on the lacrosse field). Trust yourself. Don't overanalyze each situation, just react. 

Finish this sentence: "Morgan Barton is …"

Funny. At least I think I'm funny. I don't know if everyone else does. (Laughs.)