After a tough season with seven wins and ten losses, the NC girls Varsity lacrosse team reflects on the year behind them and focuses on improving for next season. Compared to last season, the team showed improvement by winning four more games. Sadly, nine seniors will retire from high school lacrosse to move forward academically and athletically.

Sophomore Kacy Handzel, and seniors Catherine Mockalis and Addison Holmes all finished the season as high scorers with Senior Mahogani West taking the top spot. Handzel ended with the most points taking into account goals, assists, and draw controls. Seniors Briela Garner and Brittany Aguilar led the strong defensive end of the field this season. With nine girls leaving the team, coaches expect the underclassmen to step up and fill the shoes of seniors for next year’s season.

“This year, we played a new group of schools [7A- 6A] in our area. Now, we have a better plan going into next year about who to focus on to make next year’s playoffs,” NC Varsity girls lacrosse coach Cathy Ezzell said.

The team’s best game resulted in a win against McEachern with a final score of 17-3. With their smooth transitions down the field and communication throughout the game, the Varsity girls easily dominated the Indians. On the other hand, the girls suffered a tough loss against Carrolton with a score of 9-13. This loss felt difficult since the game occurred right after a lack of practice during spring break.

The whole team characterizes this season as one in which bonds were created. Coaches focused on teamwork, unlike last season, and this resulted in close friendships between the girls. Win or lose, the team truly enjoyed playing every game together.

“This season was my favorite out of four years of playing lacrosse. There was so much love and positivity this season. I never left a game or practice without a smile on my face. My teammates made my four years feel like one and made everyday good days,” senior Mahogani West said.