When Northwestern fell to Syracuse 21-13 in last year’s NCAA Tournament semifinals, one of the team’s main focuses was winning the draw. After a 2021 season in which they had performed decently well from the circle, the Wildcats’ explosive offense was effectively diffused by the Orange, who denied any chance for Northwestern to get an opportunity to score by denying the ‘Cats at the draw.
Enter Jill Girardi.
The Watertown, N.Y., native only started four games during her senior season in 2021, playing in more of a reserve role while Brennan Dwyer largely handled duties from the circle.