The KO girls varsity lacrosse team has battled through a tough season against some difficult competition, going into their final stretch of games with a 1-14 record.
Despite facing very strong varsity programs, the girls put up a fight all season and never gave up. Head Coach Judy Bailey reflected on the growth, particularly defensively, that the team has shown throughout the season. “As a team we have improved in many ways,” she said. “Defensively we have improved in how we play together as a unit, helping when needed and pressuring the ball. The defense especially has done a nice job using their back up and changing fields to get the ball to the midfield and beyond.”
Senior attacker Co-captain Alle Kotowitz echoed Coach Bailey’s statements about the improvement in the team’s defense. “Our defense specifically has improved, with more communication and feeling comfortable around each other,” she said.
Kotowitz also noted that over the course of the season, the team has grown to have a strong bond with one another, which has translated to success on the field. “We have grown to possess more of a personal team connection which has helped us on the field as a team,” she said.
On Wednesday, May 3, the girls traveled to face Hamden Hall, and although they did not win, they played a strong game. With a final score of 14-12, Coach Bailey noted that the girls stayed in the game. “We were competitive from the opening draw to the final horn,” she said.
The Wyverns had another strong performance against Ethel Walker School on Thursday, May 11. Despite falling just short with a final score of 15-12, the team had a number of different goal-scorers and put up a fight until the end. Junior midfielder Co-captain Kami Tarantino led the team with five goals and two assists, which helped keep the game competitive.
Reflecting back on the season, Coach Bailey talked about how the team has had standout performances from a number of players, which balanced the team out well. “Throughout the season, we have had several players step up in different games,” she said. Coach Bailey highlighted how important Tarantino and Kotowitz have been in the team’s success this season. “Alle Kotowitz and Kami Tarantino led the way for us in scoring,” she said. “Both girls have scored 28 goals each in the 13 games we have played to date.”
In the net, eighth-grade goalie Sarah Balog had a strong season, and she was mentored by senior Co-captain Chayse Shamleffer. “Sarah had the support of Chayse Shamleffer who coached her every day in practice and games sharing her experience and expertise in the position,” Coach Bailey said.
During the Spring Sports Assembly on Friday, May 19, several players were honored with various awards. Kotowitz and Shamleffer won the 4 Year Award, and Kotowitz also received the Most Valuable Player award. Tarantino received the Coaches Award. Junior Ashley Neikre won the Most Improved Player award.
Despite facing some tough competition this season, the girls varsity lacrosse team displayed tremendous growth and perseverance. We wish the seniors the best of luck!
