"I have a long way to go to be as good as other college players," she says. "I have a lot of work, but the team has been supportive"
So, too, has Lamont, who is currently working with the freshman "She's helped me a lot," says Abely, who began her goalkeeping career in eighth grade and continued as a four-year starter for Staples High School in Westport, Conn.
While leading Staples to the state tournament three times, Abely also spent some time on the basketball court and softball field
For now, though, Abely will stick to just field hockey.
That's because she knows she has her work cut out for her this year, she says.
"I have to become more aggressive and keep my mind in the game," she says "I need to gain more confidence. That will come with experience."
And Mabrey's more than glad to give her that experience
"She's though," Mabrey says of her starting goalie and, after a pause, the Harvard coach adds, "she's it."