Junior midfielder Alyssa Jarvis is making headlines in her third season with the University of Detroit Mercy women’s lacrosse team—this time for reaching a career-high in goals and netting five in a single game against Akron. But those stats are just part of the story.
“I knew I wanted to play lacrosse in college,” Jarvis said. “When I found UDM, it checked every box—strong academics, a competitive program and family close by in Michigan. Meeting the team sealed the deal.”
Originally from Washington, Jarvis came to UDM as a pre-dental student with a passion for both academics and athletics. She found an immediate connection with her teammates, many of whom are now among her closest friends.
This season has been a breakout one, and Jarvis credits the team’s chemistry and new coaching staff.
“Our offense has become more versatile,” she said. “It’s not about one player—it’s about everyone stepping up. When someone gets shut down, there are six more who can score. That balance has changed everything.”
In their senior day win against Akron, Jarvis’s five-goal performance stood out—but it wasn’t just about her.
“Every game counts now that we’re in conference play,” she said. “We knew what was on the line, and I just focused on doing my part for the team.”
Head Coach Alexa Matta, who took the reins this past fall, saw something special in Jarvis from the start.
“She’s got this incredible mix of energy, hustle, and heart,” Matta said. “She’s the kind of player who makes the team want to show up and work hard.”
Jarvis’s leadership has also taken center stage. Whether rallying teammates during practice or lifting spirits during tough games, she’s earned the respect of everyone around her.
“She sets the tone,” teammate Libby Cuckler said. “She’s the most energetic person on the field, but also the most reliable. If someone’s having a bad day, she’s the first one to offer support. Her drive inspires the rest of us.”
That leadership goes beyond motivation. Jarvis is known for her commitment to team growth—mentoring younger players, helping others study game film and staying late at practice.
“She’s the example we all look to,” Cuckler added. “On and off the field.”
Her success this season is no accident. The team’s rigorous fall training, combined with Jarvis’s focus and discipline, helped lay the foundation.
“We built a new culture this year,” she said. “From conditioning to chemistry, we’ve worked hard to get to this point.”
Off the field, Jarvis maintains a demanding schedule balancing academics and athletics.
“Time management is key,” she said. “I try to stay ahead on schoolwork so I can give my all to lacrosse. It’s taught me how to stay organized and disciplined.”
With her sights set on winning the MAC championship and preparing for dental school after graduation, Jarvis has big goals ahead. But Coach Matta says it’s not just what Jarvis does now—it’s who she’s becoming.
“She’s going to do great things,” Matta said. “She’s got what it takes to be successful in life—hard work, heart, and a genuine care for others. As a coach, you couldn’t ask for more.”
For now, Jarvis is focused on the next game, the next goal and lifting her team along the way. As the season heats up, one thing is clear: Jarvis is the heartbeat of Titans women’s lacrosse.
