This winter, the Foran girls’ lacrosse team started their training for the upcoming spring season. With dedication and hard work, the preparation is unmatched so they can succeed in victory.
Most of the team members have been participating in a winter league on Saturdays, and conditioning multiple times during the week after school.
This preparation allows the girls to run long distances, mirroring real game skills and making sure they are physically prepared for the upcoming season.
Junior lacrosse player Shea Pangu states, “Winter league also allows us to pick up our sticks and get some playing time, which is beneficial since many of us have not played in a while.”
Whilst the winter league is very helpful for physical preparation, it can also benefit the players’ mental preparation for the spring season.
Conditioning this early before the season starts gives the players a chance to get to know each other’s playing style, making the team more cohesive when they play together.
Being together as a team also gives the players a chance to bond. It is also crucial that teammates are comfortable with each other to have a successful season.
“It allows us to come together and scrimmage against other teams in a fun stress-free environment, giving us the chance to enjoy the sport we love,” says sophomore Isabella Warakomski.
Warakomski’s teammate, Lily Bortnick states, “These practices benefit team bonding. They also help players improve and get back in shape for the season.”
Although the game may be fun, some personal challenges are always included throughout the players’ season.
“A personal challenge for me this coming season will be the fact that I’m coming off of an injury, and haven’t played in any actual games since my freshman year,” states Pangu.
Pangu states that she tore her meniscus at the very beginning of the season last year, and since then has been working to rebuild her strength and try to get it back to the state she was in before the injury.
Pangu also says, “It is also hard because I missed a season, but I am very excited to be able to play again and practice with my friends every day.”
Another challenge, according to Bortnick, is keeping up with schoolwork whilst focusing on her sport.
“A challenge for me this season is time management. Both school and sports are very important to me,” Bortnick says. “The process of balancing school, sports, and social activities will pose a certain challenge.”
Though the challenges are tough and may be hard to work with, the result is what always matters.
This year, girls’ lacrosse is ready with their preparation for a Lady Lions win.
