George Mason High School senior, Abby Johansen, signed a letter of intent, Wednesday, to play Division 1 lacrosse at Old Dominion University next year.

George Mason High School senior, Abby Johansen (right) signs a letter of intent to play Division 1 lacrosse next year at Old Dominion University. She is congratulated by GMHS lacrosse head coach, Courtney Gibbons. (Photo: FCCPS/John Brett)

George Mason High School senior, Abby Johansen, signed a letter of intent, Wednesday, to play Division 1 lacrosse at Old Dominion University next year.

Johansen began her lacrosse career while in the third grade, playing for Falls Church Youth Lacrosse Club. Upon her arrival at George Mason in the eighth grade, she joined the Mustang’s Junior Varsity team which was undefeated in the Dulles District that year. As a junior, Johansen skill at midfield and defense helped lead her varsity team, coached by St. Bonaventure lacrosse alum Courtney Gibbons, to its first ever undefeated regular season record of 13-0, and 15-2 overall. That same year, Laxpower.com ranked the Mustang’s 17^th in Virginia, the school’s highest ranking ever. The team also made its first regional championship appearance and became the first “single A” public school in the state of Virginia to “play up” in the AA Dulles District.

Last season Johansen was named to the All-District First Team and All-Region Second Team for Region II in Virginia. Previously she had been honored as an All-District Second Team member during her freshman and sophomore years, for the AA Dulles District. Abby also made the Washington Post ALLMET top 50 Leaders List, scoring 63 goals and making 25 assists in over 17 games for the season.

Outside of her high school career, Abby has played club lacrosse for Capital Orange 2011 at both the D-wing and low defense positions. Capital Orange is coached by sisters Julia Hughey (now Gisewite) and Alice Hughey who are well known in the lacrosse circuit.

In addition to her athletic activities, Abby plays flute in the award winning GMHS concert, symphonic, and pep bands.

Summary of Johansen’s GMHS awards and athletics:

1. Number 17 on Spring 2010 Washington Post top 50 leaders list for scoring and assists in DC metro area by scoring 63 goals and making 25 assists over 17 games.

2. 2010 All District First Team; Two-time 2nd team All-District (freshman and sophomore years): AA Dulles District.
3. 2010 All Region Second Team.

4. Varsity Basketball 2009/2010 – Virginia State, Regional, and District Champions.

5. Varsity Basketball 2008/2009 – Virginia State, Regional, and District Champions.