Maryland Native Shines In USF's Headstrong Lacrosse Win

Sophomore midfielder Natalie Kelly led USF to victory while honoring her mother's cancer battle.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:33pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the dynamic motion and raw emotion of a lacrosse game, the players' faces and uniforms blending into vibrant, unrecognizable splatters.A lacrosse player's determined expression reflects the personal battles being fought on and off the field during an emotional Headstrong game.Bel Air Today

Sophomore midfielder Natalie Kelly, a Maryland native, had an outstanding performance in the University of South Florida's 22-11 lacrosse win over Charlotte on Saturday. The game was USF's annual 'Headstrong' event to honor those battling cancer, and Kelly's mother, Denyele Fiacco, was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer. Kelly played with a ribbon in her hair and a wristband with her mother's name, and her teammates said they were 'playing for something bigger than ourselves' in support of Kelly and her family.

Why it matters

The Headstrong game is an important annual event for the USF lacrosse program to raise awareness and support for those affected by cancer. Kelly's personal connection to the cause through her mother's diagnosis added extra meaning and emotion to the day's events.

The details

Kelly, a finance major who aspires to be a financial advisor, is a team captain for USF. She said the support from her coaches and teammates has meant 'everything and more' since learning of her mother's cancer diagnosis. USF led by one goal at halftime and three after three quarters before breaking the game open with a 10-goal fourth quarter.

  • The Headstrong game was played on Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Denyele Fiacco, Kelly's mother, was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer.

The players

Natalie Kelly

A sophomore midfielder for the University of South Florida lacrosse team, who is from Bel Air, Maryland. Kelly played with a ribbon in her hair and a wristband with her mother's name to honor her mother's cancer battle.

Denyele Fiacco

Natalie Kelly's mother, who was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer.

Mindy McCord

The head coach of the University of South Florida lacrosse team.

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What they’re saying

“When I found out about her cancer, it was like I didn't even know what to think. It doesn't seem real, but the support that my coaches and my teammates are showing me means everything and more. I cannot put it into words.”

— Natalie Kelly, Sophomore Midfielder, University of South Florida

“My teammates said all day that we were playing for something bigger than ourselves today. Honestly, I can look in the mirror and say that my problems are so insignificant in the grand scheme of things.”

— Natalie Kelly, Sophomore Midfielder, University of South Florida

“Nat has meant so much to us because she is a captain on our team and always remains true to her leadership. Her leadership does not waver no matter what she is going through. I am glad we could step up as a lacrosse family and play for Denyele and other parents who have been affected by cancer.”

— Mindy McCord, Head Coach, University of South Florida

What’s next

The USF lacrosse team will continue their season, with their next game scheduled for April 19, 2026.

The takeaway

Natalie Kelly's personal connection to the Headstrong cause through her mother's cancer diagnosis inspired her teammates and coaches to rally around her, demonstrating the power of sports to bring communities together and provide support during difficult times.