The girls lacrosse team at HS223 is on a mission this season! Not just to win the championship for the PSAL, but also to grow as student-athletes and individuals. With a strong focus on teamwork and skill development, the team is making a name for themselves in the league.

Team Overview:

The history of the girls lacrosse team is rooted in a shared passion for the sport that began in eighth grade with Coach Andi. At that time, there were no girls playing lacrosse, and the only option was the men’s team. When the announcement was made for the formation of a girls team, many students eagerly tried out. This new opportunity brought together a group of athletes who were excited to learn and compete in a sport that was unfamiliar to them.

As of now, the team is navigating through a challenging season. Although their most recent game resulted in a loss, the team acknowledges that they have had limited practice since the school year began. The differences in game structures have also brought challenges as they adapt to new ways of playing. Reflecting on last season, the team has shown significant growth from those early days under Coach Andi, evolving to more skilled players. 

As the season progresses, the girls lacrosse team remains committed to their goals of improvement and success, both on and off the field. With their determination and teamwork, they are sure to continue making strides and leaving a mark in the PSL.

Notable Players:

Several players on the team have stepped up in their positions. According to Paige Inis, the team has a strong lineup: “In my opinion, our most exceptional attacker is Saskia Martinez, our best defender is Jayda Caceres, and our standout midfielders are Emma Hawkins and Andribel Cruz. We also have one dedicated goalie, Aziyah Solis, who has been amazing in keeping our defense strong.”

Player and Coach Insights:

The lacrosse team at our school is not just a group of athletes, it’s a tight community that influences growth and resilience. Players Katherine Paredes and Jayda Caceres shared their unique experiences, highlighting both the challenges and the rewards of being part of the team.

Katherine described her journey in lacrosse as a transformative experience. Initially hesitant and unsure of her skills, she has learned the importance of confidence in her ability to improve. “If you’re not confident, you’ll stay in the same place forever,” she said, emphasizing the progress she’s made through hard work inside and outside of school. For her, the most memorable moments come from the anticipation of game days and the bonds formed during team trips, where they truly feel like a family, growing together.

Jayda highlights this sense of community, calling her time on the team an “amazing rollercoaster of emotions.” She values the friendships she has developed, which serve as her motivation to push through the challenges of balancing academics and athletics. “With our family-like community, anything is possible!” Jayda stated. Her focus moving forward is to improve both individually and as part of the team, demonstrating the resilience that is evident among the entire group.

Coach Lily provided valuable insight into the team’s hopes and dynamics. Her goal is to lead the team to win the city-wide championship while creating a legacy of excellence that will allow the program to thrive for years to come. With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, Coach Lily emphasizes the importance of performing under pressure and adapting to new environments during games. She recalled an amazing moment when the team faced a highly competitive school and emerged victorious by a single goal, showing their ability to rise and do their best when needed. 

Coach Lily is specifically excited about the potential of the younger players, noting their drive to improve daily. “When they choose to work hard, they are unstoppable,” she says, reflecting the team’s collective commitment to growth and success.

Together, the players and coach show the spirit of perseverance, teamwork, and passion that defines our school’s lacrosse team.

Conclusion:

In sum, the girls lacrosse team at HS223 is more than just a collection of athletes, they show a heartfelt community dedicated to personal growth and success. As they figure out the challenges of a demanding season, their commitment to improvement both on and off the field remains consistent. With players showcasing their skills and a coach who inspires them to reach new heights, this team is making a lasting impact in the PSAL. The bonds formed through hard work, resilience, and shared experiences will undoubtedly leave a legacy that stretches beyond the season, ensuring that this group continues to grow in all their future journeys. As they reach for excellence, the girls lacrosse team is not just making changes in their season, they are setting the stage for a bright future in the sport.