RAPID CITY, SD (July 3, 2025) – Abbie Cina wasn’t chasing accolades—she simply plays for the love of the game.
But the Rapid City Central senior’s passion and talent didn’t go unnoticed. This summer, Cina, a standout midfielder and attacker for Dakota Calamity Lacrosse, made history as South Dakota’s first-ever High School Girl USA Lacrosse All-American.
“Being named an All-American has been such an honor; I sometimes forget that it’s real,” Cina said. “But I can honestly say my team deserves a lot of the credit. Everyone built each other up, and I don’t think I would’ve had such a great season if it weren’t for them.”
USA Lacrosse recently announced the All-Americans for the 2025 high school girls’ lacrosse season, honoring more than 500 of the nation’s best players for their accomplishments this year. Cina is the only player selected in both North and South Dakota. The Dakotas are allowed only one All-American selection.
USA Lacrosse oversees the selection of the All-Americans and other high school awards, which are administered locally by area chairs. Selections are based on voting by coaches within each geographical area.
“Abbie isn’t just an exceptional player—she’s a true leader. She mentors our younger athletes and sets the standard as a role model on and off the field,” said Corey Whalen, Dakota Calamity head coach. “There’s no one more deserving of this honor.”
In addition to USA Lacrosse All-American, Cina was the 2024 Northern Plains Lacrosse League (NPLL) Honorable Mention All-State Attack, 2025 NPLL All-State Attack and All-State Academic award winner.
Cina, who has been playing lacrosse for nearly a decade, said she loves the connections and sportsmanship lacrosse brings to the region. “Most of the teams we’ve gone against, everyone’s been able to make genuine connections with opponents on the field. I love the game itself, but the friendships you continue to gain each year are one of the bigger reasons I’ve continued to play.”
She also finds fulfillment in tackling the physical and mental challenges that come with playing lacrosse.
“At the start of the 2025 season, I had a hard time finding my confidence in the sport—even after years of playing,” Cina said. “Coach Corey always made sure that we played to the best of our abilities. He always put our own mental health before the game. I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today if it weren’t for him.”
A full list of USA Lacrosse 2025 High School Girls’ All-Americans can be found here.
