SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The Notre Dame Fighting Irish Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach Christine Halfpenny announced Ellie Masera as the final addition to her staff for this season on Friday afternoon. Masera, a recent 2024 graduate from Stony Brook, joins the Notre Dame program as an assistant coach after an outstanding four-year career with the Seawolves and a rookie season in the professional league with Athletes Unlimited.
“Ellie is joining us fresh off her rookie season with Athletes Unlimited following a remarkable career at Stony Brook,” said Halfpenny. “She’ll make an immediate impact on our player development and will also work with the offense. Ellie’s passion for the game, compete level, lacrosse IQ, and enthusiasm will be excellent additions to our program!”
Masera was a decorated midfielder in her four year career at Stony Brook.
She was a 2024 Tewaaraton finalist, the second player in program history, alongside former Notre Dame attacker and all-time Irish points leader, Jackie Wolak (2020-2024).
The two-time IWLCA, USA Lacrosse Magazine, and ILWomen All-American was the third pick in the AU Pro Lax Draft in April. Masera was also named the 2023 and 2024 CAA Midfielder of the Year and the 2022 America East Midfielder of the Year.
She finished her senior season as the fifth-best goal scorer in Division I (77) and finished second in points (117), also leading the nation as a senior in shots on goal and shots on goal per game. Masera finished her college career with 232 goals, 317 points, and a program record of 388 draw controls.
“I’m excited to join the Notre Dame family,” said Masera. “There is a tradition of excellence at this university and in the Women’s lacrosse program. I’m proud to join such a distinguished coaching staff and look forward to contributing to the future success of ND Women’s lacrosse. Go Irish!”
The additions of Caroline Curnal and Ellie Masera complete the 2024-25 Fighting Irish coaching staff for the women’s lacrosse program.
“I’m excited to welcome both Caroline and Ellie to the Notre Dame staff,” said Halfpenny. “We can’t wait to get started and welcome them to the ND lacrosse family.”