Aiming for the state title, girls lacrosse is determined to make a comeback.
Last season, girls lacrosse qualified for regionals with a record of 13-3. During regional quarter-finals, Cosby High School from Midlothian, Va., defeated the Lady Dolphins.
“I am excited for this season; we have an amazing group of girls who work hard every day at practice to get better. We are hoping to go far again this year,” said senior Summerlin Gates.
This year marks the second season of girls lacrosse as an official Virginia High School League (VHSL) varsity sport. Many players started playing for the first time last year.
“Being new to the sport made me nervous,” said sophomore Brynn Kimener.
Two seniors this year have committed to continue their athletics at the collegiate level. Molly Ryan and Summerlin Gates will play at University of Mary Washington next spring.
“I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to play at the collegiate level, especially with my sister,” said Summerlin. “We have been playing for about 11 years; we started playing club lacrosse in the fifth grade and have loved every minute of it.”
Molly Ryan and Summerlin are first-year captains and serve as great role models to the rest of the team.
“The twins are always striving to be great role models for the team, and they have worked so hard to be where they are; it’s very inspiring,” said junior Emma Sanders.
Losing in the quarter-finals last season may have proved difficult for a few players, but having a close team that communicates is good for any team.
“I love coming to practice and seeing the new friends I’ve made from being on the team,” said Brynn.
The girls took their first victory on March 22, 2024, against Norfolk Collegiate with a final score of 12-8. Summerlin and Molly Ryan combined for seven goals, junior Riley Wright scored four goals and sophomore Bella Rivers scored one. In addition, junior goalkeeper Chloe Purvis had nine saves against the Mighty Oaks.
Home games can be beneficial for the team because they practice in that space. Girls lacrosse trains 10 hours a week here at Ocean Lakes Monday through Friday. This can make them more comfortable before a game with a home field advantage.
“I prefer home games because we all get more excited and prepared for the game, along with getting that home field advantage, which can be very beneficial,” said Riley.
On April 9, 2024, Ocean Lakes had a victory against Salem High School with an ending score of 18-3, and they are currently undefeated in the Beach District. The seniors could not be happier.
Six girls will celebrate senior night, which takes place on April 30 at 7:00 p.m at Ocean Lakes High School.
“The seniors and I feel great about this season,” said senior Erika Wilson. “We have a lot of talent on our team, and we think we have the potential to go really far this year.”
