Athletes gear up to play lacrosse every spring, but often, their work goes unseen. Many athletes train year-round, preparing for their success.
Girls’ Head Lacrosse Coach Ashley Springsteen explained the team’s work ethics, detailing their tri-weekly strength training and conditioning sessions.
Despite losing many seniors in the past year, Springsteen expects leaders to step up. She details the “family atmosphere” and teamwork that one another brings. Springsteen also credits teamwork and encouragement, believing it will help on and off the field.
“I like to see my players shine and be a leader outside of school,” says Springsteen. In her five years of coaching the team, Springsteen seeks Foran’s first lacrosse state championship and improved leadership and camaraderie.
Foran’s girl lacrosse team is coming off SCC division championships, but Foran is insistent on winning states. Improvements include a competitive preseason schedule, teamwork, and reliance on upcoming talent.
Senior captain Mackenzie Posey is eager for the start of the season. She explains how athletes are preparing for lacrosse.
“Some of the girls that aren’t playing a winter sport have been participating in winter leagues on Saturday afternoons as well as conditioning with our coaches two to three times a week,” Posey says. Winter conditioning allows free-agent athletes to stay in playing shape while preparing for the spring.
Posey is spirited for the upcoming season, explaining how her nine years of experience resulted in her attachment to the sport.
“My goal for the season sounds silly, but it is to just have fun,” says Posey. As a captain, Posey aims to excite the team while enjoying her final year as a Lion.
Many people in Foran’s lacrosse community share this enthusiasm. Athletic Director of 18 years Anthony Vitelli is “looking forward to the season.”
In his final year as Athletic Director, Vitelli has been a fan since the beginning. Created 12 years ago, the girl’s team is a year removed from their best season. Vitelli, noticing the improved level of performance, credits the growing knowledge of younger classes.
“Incoming freshmen are more skilled than in previous years,” he quotes. According to Vitelli, new, local recreation leagues, like Milford Youth Lacrosse, allow young players to learn fundamental skills, helping them prepare for high school.
“We need to play well to make states,” says Vitelli. Through offseason training, skilled incoming players, determination, and grit, Foran’s ladies seek their first state championship – and more.
The girl season began on March 30. As of April 11, the varsity team carries a 5-1 record.
