By Emily Knepple, Arts and Entertainment Editor
During the spring season, the varsity lacrosse team had quite an eventful season participating in 11 games across the state. The team competed against several local competitors, such as Ranney and Saint Rose, and traveled to play Blair Academy and Rutgers Prep. Despite losing its first 10 games, the team persevered to win its final game against Ranney on May 18 to end the season on a high note.

Freshman Colleen Cusat carries out an offensive play against Middletown North’s defense. Photo courtesy of The Royal Record

“This was our first varsity season, and it was hard because we aren’t a team full of juniors and seniors,” said sophomore Bridget Clifford, who served as the team’s co-captain along with Kathryn Kwapniewski and Catherine Loder. “A majority of the girls didn’t have a lot of experience, but overall it was a fun team to be a part of and I see a lot of potential.”

Junior Liszeth Rodriguez agreed that the move to varsity play, compared to their mostly JV competition last season, proved to be the team’s greatest challenge.

“The teams this year were definitely more aggressive and advanced then the teams we played last year,” Rodriguez said.

In addition to being younger than their competitors, many of the players had little experience with lacrosse, providing another crucial obstacle; however, the Monarchs displayed grit and determination all season to earn their first varsity victory, and with their first varsity season under their belts, they will undoubtedly be better prepared to face tough competition next spring.