The Marist girls lacrosse team is widely recognized for its success on every level. The wonderful coaching staff and the dedication of every girl have led to multiple victorious seasons and growth over the years.
“We are fortunate to have alumni who played in college and are able to coach,” said Varsity Coach Jose Colon. The young women have been present at the pre-season training and seem eager to share their skills and experiences with the girls.
The gyms are working mostly on fundamentals, as well as on understanding the game and how to execute what is being learned. This involves everything from basic stick-handling and defensive skill, to eventually running scrimmages.
“I would absolutely recommend attending the open gyms,” said senior Emma Fields. “They’re a great way to meet new people, improve skills before the season starts, and build confidence while getting reps in a low-pressure environment.”
‘Low pressure’ is the perfect description for the open gyms. Everybody there is at different skill levels and wants to get better.
Experience doesn’t matter either. Every coach is willing to offer their help as long as the effort is put in. Anyone who tries the sport is bound to find some level of success through hard work and commitment.
“We always get a number of freshmen who come and want to try something new,” said Colon.
Many freshmen have joined the team and eventually earned scholarships because of the helpful coaching and the overall energy of the group.
“I had never even heard of even the word ‘lacrosse’ before,” said Fields, who is now a key player on the team.
The lacrosse team community is something like no other. Coaches and players alike have noted that everyone is very supportive and excited to be with each other, starting at the open gyms all the way to the end of the season.
“The community is a family,” said senior Tessa Dowling. “It’s a sisterhood.”
The girls are with each other for hours during the season, and have built strong bonds and respect for one another and their skills.. They work together to lift each other up and prepare for upcoming games.
“The community I’ve built is supportive, encouraging, and welcoming,” said Fields. “Everyone pushes each other to improve, and all of us are always cheering one another on.”
Simple things like throwing and catching a ball off a wall are just a few short and easy ways to get ready for the season.
However, energy and dedication are also key factors in catching a coach’s eye during preseason and tryouts.
“I recommend giving 110 percent and giving it your best no matter what,” said Dowling.
But the work doesn’t stop when the open gyms and preseason end.
“Work hard and do things on your own leading up to tryouts and when you are on the team,” said Dowling.
Effort tops experience, and is the best way to be a part of Marist’s legendary team.
Tryouts take place the week of March 2 through 7, depending on grade level, at the Red and White Stadium.
