On St. Patrick’s Day of 2026, the NC varsity girls’ lacrosse team (3-4) needed no luck to dominate the field, securing a smashing win against the Walker High School Wolverines (0-4). Following a loss to Carrollton High School (4-6), the Warriors knew they could honor their graduating class by stepping up their collaboration and doubling down on their already incredible teamwork. After securing this hard-earned win, NC moved on to compete with Sequoyah High School (6-6).
The match began with the national anthem and a huddle-up from both teams, as they discussed game strategy and hyped up their respective teams. As the match began, excitement flooded both the players and audience, and NC watched as Walker’s defender and attacker, Dylan Jefferson (14), scored the first goal. After a flash of worry, the Warriors stood confident on their home ground, scoring the first goal for NC. Emerging from the tie, senior midfielder Keating Ball (19) scored the third goal, raising the score to 3-1. With only two minutes left of the first quarter’s clock, the Wolverines called out to each other with drive, but NC held onto the lead until the end.
The second quarter began with a goal by Walker’s Jefferson, raising the stakes on the scoreboard. The Warriors quickly rebounded, establishing dominance over the field as Ball and magnet senior attacker Saffie Laposata (29) announced themselves as powerhouses through several impressive goals. Senior attacker Angie Mosquera (2) additionally shot a notable goal, raising the scoreboard in NC’s favor. The Wolverines called for a timeout, in which the teams gathered to reestablish strategy, congratulate their peers’ work thus far and rehydrate. Ultimately, the first half ended with a 7-3 score and proud Warrior spirits.
“[My favorite part of the game was] definitely the second quarter. We were lacking during the first quarter, and we just came together to talk before going back onto the field to have an even better game. [Our teamwork] really stems from the relationship we all have. We’re a big group of friends both on and off the field, and we’re able to critique and build each other up without any kind of awkwardness. [I’ll miss] the players, for sure. They’re such wonderful people, and it makes me sad realizing I won’t have another season with them,” Laposata said.
Following the riveting first half of the game, the seniors walked the field hand-in-hand with their favorite teachers. Feeding off the bittersweet energy of the senior night, the ceremony highlighted a strong student-teacher connection and emphasized the crucial support of a loving NC faculty during their academic paths. Teachers on the field included American Sign Language (ASL) teacher Lisa Teschke, Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations teacher Erika Bailey and Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology teacher William Hargis.
The Lady Warriors felt the energy of triumph in the air as they returned to the game for the third quarter. NC senior attacker and midfielder Kaelyn Jenkins (6) scored the first goal for quarter three, allowing NC to keep their lead. Regardless of the score, the Warriors waiting to return to the game enjoyed one of their last moments with their teammates — cheering for their pals and clapping when NC scored — even inviting an NC alumnus, Astro Johnson, to watch the game and support her peers. With such an amazing environment and energy surrounding the crew, the final score of the third quarter rose to 15-3.
With a single quarter standing between the Warriors’ victory, NC fought on and poured every ounce of effort into their senior game. The Wolverines scored their final goal of the night, followed by a succession of three points by Ball, defender and attacker Elaina Soriano (9) and attacker and midfielder Olivia Muller (40), respectively. The game ended 18-4, with the Warrior girls swarming the field in a proud celebration of their incredible performance.
Following the game’s exciting end, fans and athletes alike felt fulfilled from their victorious spirits, wishing to hold the senior athletes closer as they prepared to say goodbye. Accompanied by their families and loved ones, the beloved girls walked the field while the stands boomed their accomplishments and hopes for the future. As they marched, camera shutters clicked and the commentator mentioned a quote from each senior who spoke of their favorite high school experiences.
“Senior night was so fun to be a part of, and it was cool to watch the seniors celebrate their last year on the team. The game itself made the night more exciting because we played really well and won. The whole experience was just so special and memorable for the whole team, but especially for the seniors. It made me look forward to being in their position in the future,” magnet freshman JV attacker Emmaline Dhirar (34) said.
The Chant wishes these talented seniors luck in their future endeavors.
