Since losing a multitude of players from last season, the Paly girls’ lacrosse team has goals in mind for their upcoming games. Currently, they are 2-4 overall and optimistic about how things will play out.
The team is ready for a reset after losing nine seniors who participated last year. Losing players can have a huge impact on the team’s chemistry and trust. However, junior defender Keerthi Raj is hopeful about the new opportunities that these changes will bring.
“Losing nine seniors allows for a lot of change within our team dynamics,” Raj said. “We have quickly been able to work together as a team. Our improvement as a team in such a short period has been amazing, and it is incredible to see the team grow.”
Junior midfielder Natalie Dymmel credits the team’s adaptability to the increase in team bonding and new programs.
“After losing 9 valuable players as graduates, the coaches and captains introduced new systems to continue to build the program, but in a fresh, new way,” said Dymmel. “We now have more team bonding through dinners, which are meant to create stronger relationships within our team and connect off the field.”
Dymmel also highlights the positivity and growth the team embodies.
“From the start of our season, the growth each player has made at practice translates and shows in games,” Dymmel said. “Whether there is a problem with referees, lack of players, or other adversities, we support each other on and off the field, in order to have the best time playing the sport we love with good friends.”
In their first league game, the team defeated Wilcox 15-1 in a morale-boosting match. Raj describes this match as a memorable one.
“Our win against Wilcox was a significant game, and it was major to have a strong start to our league games,” Raj said. “Additionally, it was a great learning experience for a lot of our teammates who are newer to the sport.”
A major goal for the team is to defeat the rival school, Gunn. Previously this season, they lost to Gunn 9-11 in a hard-fought upset. Junior midfielder Meera Walsh shares her positive mindset about the match.
“Coming close to beating Gunn was a memorable moment this season because they beat us by a lot more previously,” Walsh said. “It was a close game this year, and we are ready to bounce back.”
The team is set to play Gunn again on May 9, which is on Gunn’s senior night.
“Our girls put up a really hard fight against Gunn despite certain uncontrollables,” Dymmel said. “We will be well prepared for when we face these rivals again on their senior night.”
The Paly girls’ lacrosse team has embraced change, strengthened their chemistry, and remains focused on their goals. With determination and teamwork, they look forward to finishing the season strong.