SAVANNAH, Ga. -- Redshirt sophomore Noelle Lambert (Londonderry, N.H.) of the UMass Lowell Women's Lacrosse team was named the inaugural recipient of the America East Inspiration Award, which was announced by the conference office announced at its annual awards dinner Tuesday evening. Lambert returned to the field this year after suffering a life-altering tragedy in the summer of 2016.
 
Less than two years after suffering significant injuries, including the loss of her left leg, in a moped accident while on vacation, Lambert fought hard to return to the field with a prosthesis and officially made her return to the field on April 7th. She scored a goal in the River Hawks' home win against Hartford.

"I am extremely honored to have received the first ever Inspiration Award from America East," said Lambert. "I'm truly thankful for all the support that I've received from everyone in America East and from the entire UMass Lowell community.  I'd like to especially thank my teammates and coaches for pushing me to be better every single day, and for never letting me give up.  None of this would even be possible without them."
 
The award is mirrored after the NCAA Inspiration Award, which is selectively bestowed to someone currently or formerly within intercollegiate athletes who, when confronted with a life-altering situation used perseverance, dedication and determination to overcome the event and now serves as a role model to give hope and inspiration to others in similar situations.

"Congratulations to Noelle on this most-deserving honor," said America East Commissioner Amy Huchthausen. "Noelle's story is an incredibly moving one of determination and perseverance and she is a role model for anyone facing adversity after suffering a life-altering tragedy."
 
About America East: The America East provides its member schools and their athletic programs a platform upon which student-athletes can achieve both collegiate and life success through the promotion and nurturing of athletic excellence, academic achievement and leadership, on and off the field.