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Gianna Monaco, a first-team USA Lacrosse Division I Women's Preseason All-American, has stepped away from Florida due to personal reasons, the school said in a statement Monday.
USA Lacrosse Magazine first reported last week that Monaco was no longer listed on the roster. The statement from Florida head coach Amanda O'Leary was provided to Inside Lacrosse.
"We wish Gianna all the best in her future endeavors," O'Leary said. "We are looking forward to starting the season this week."
Florida opens against Loyola in Baltimore on Saturday, and Monaco is not expected to return to the program this season.
Monaco stepped up in a big way in 2025, evolving from a role player to a go-to star. She compiled 73 goals, 22 assists, 22 ground balls and 10 caused turnovers, leading Florida back to the final four.
While Monaco's loss will be felt, Florida is equipped with plenty of depth on offense, both on attack and in the midfield.
Kenny DeJohn has been the Digital Content Editor at USA Lacrosse since 2019. First introduced to lacrosse in 2016 as a Newsday Sports reporter on Long Island (yes, ON Long Island), DeJohn specializes in women's game coverage. His search for New York quality pizza in Baltimore is ongoing.