During a year of many hardships and victories, our very own girls lacrosse team has begun their season. Unfortunately, last year’s season was cut short due to COVID-19. That hasn’t stopped these girls from being determined to follow the road to a successful season. Not only does this group of players want to win, but they are also committed to improving their program and the bond between each other.

Coach Pickels has taken the role as head coach for the girls lacrosse team for two years now. Her team has made sure to follow the COVID-19 safety procedures but looks on the positive side of all the commotion by saying, “ I know COVID has put some strain on our school year but it’s given our girls more of a drive to be safer because they know that their season and chance to play again is at stake.” The overall goal for Coach Pickles this year is to pick up from last year and continue learning from their mistakes “so when we meet those teams again we will be better than we were before.” As head coach, Ms. Pickels has created so many fond memories with her girls, but her fondest memory has been “spending time with the girls for our team meals before our away games. It gives them all time to bond and relax as friends before the rush of the games.”

Senior, Haley Reed,  started her first season this year and is now the goalie. She enjoys improving her hand-eye coordination by running the “tennis ball drill,” which is when you play with a tennis ball with your stick to keep control of the ball when running and while the defense is trying to steal it. The team atmosphere is very important when building a successful team and program. Haley explains that their team is “super pumped up some days, and others not so much.” She also makes sure to shout out assistant coach Deon, saying “he makes the team have fun so it’s definitely worth the time that’s being put in.” 

Another Lacrosse player, Junior, Morgan Hall, encourages other young girls to play because “it’s super fun and a great learning experience!”  Morgan has been playing  lacrosse for two years now and continues to work on her skill set by getting involved in a lacrosse fall season and playing around the house. Her favorite drill to do during practice is the 7 vs 7, this drill “helps the team have fun while also conditioning and getting ready for games.” Morgan also mentions that “this year is all about the work we put in on the off time.” 

One thing is for sure about the girls lacrosse team, these girls are ready to win. Their hunger and determination for success is leading them down a hopeful path. Make sure to come support these girls at their games. You can get tickets on go fans (https:gofan.co) and the schedule is below. Congratulations to the girls’ team on March 8th, with a big win, 13-8, against rivals Wekiva. Last but certainly not least, good luck Lady Darters!