By Anthony Giovino
Staff Writer

Playing on a varsity sports team is often considered the greatest achievement a high school athlete can attain, with spots usually reserved for seniors and juniors. It’s always impressive when an underclassman makes the squad. It’s even more impressive when four underclassmen are selected for a varsity sport, in this case the girls’ lacrosse team.

This year, freshmen Cat Mahanna, and Haley Cogliano, and sophomores Leah Calitri and Ellie Diamond were selected for the girls’ varsity lacrosse team.

They each started playing lacrosse in different ways, and they love the sport for it’s competitiveness and the teamwork needed to put points on the board.

“I think I started because my mom played in college,” said Diamond, a defensive midfield player. “She got me and my sister into it … The tables can change and you never know what’s coming.”

Cogliano, an attacker who plays defense if necessary, also contributed, “”For me, it was probably watching my siblings play. I went to almost every single one of their games, and I just thought it was a really cool sport.”

However, the passion for the sport does not come without a price.

“I definitely had to prepare myself, it’s an entirely different level than Youth Lacrosse, and I wanted to make sure that I could meet that level,” said Mahanna.

Despite this, the four players agreed that the reward of making the team was well worth the work put behind it.

“The tryouts weren’t hard, but the work behind it, to be able to compete with the upperclassmen was hard” said Cogliano. “Overall, playing with older kids, not just on our team but on the other teams, is a good experience. You learn a lot.”

There is also a mental aspect of lacrosse, which is handed down from the upperclassmen. The mental state of a varsity athlete is one that requires an incredible amount of focus before a game.

“Thinking about [the game] throughout the day, it’s on your mind … You have to be ready,” said Diamond.

As for the next batch of potential varsity players, the girls believe they don’t have much to worry about.

“A lot of seniors are leaving next year, and spots are gonna open up. The JV team is really good. The coach is great, and they’re really well prepared.” said Calitri

The girls also have high hopes for leadership roles on the team when they become seniors.

“I want to be a leader to the underclassmen on the team. The seniors have been great and have great leadership skills,” said Cogliano.

Of course, these girls love the sport they play.
“[I love lacrosse] because of the teammates and the friendships we have. And the game itself.” said Diamond.