Currently sitting at 4th in section 1 class-AAA of the WPIAL, the Norwin girls lacrosse team has their playoff spot secured and is ready to make a deep run.
“The team has been performing amazingly and above our opponent’s expectations. I think we have been performing this way because of our sheer determination and hard work,” Ava Kessler said. “We practice how we play and this year we know that we have talent on this team and something to prove.”
Having a standout season so far, the Lady Knights have been impressing the competition, and doing pretty well in the section. The team is currently sitting at a record of 9-8 with some key wins against teams like North Allegheny, and Franklin Regional. These key victories have emboldened the knights and given them confidence heading into some tough competition in the playoffs.
In the past, the girl’s lacrosse teams have had plenty of talent, but this year they have been able to capitalize on their skill and perform at a high degree. An important aspect of the girls’ game that will aid them greatly in the playoffs is their ability to finish the games strong. Throughout most of the regular season, the girl’s team has won their games in in the closing minutes of the game where the athletes are tired, but have to keep going. The team’s ability to persevere in the toughest parts of matches is what has gotten them to their current standing, and to the point where they are ready to make a playoff run.
“Our current coach has impacted our team, by helping us hone in on what we’re good at and how we can utilize that on the field,” Alana Samek said.
The team’s success this year comes from a multitude of aspects of the team, one of which is excellent coaching. Coach Courtney Kloos has given this team great amounts of encouragement, and guidance throughout the season. For these players having a dependable coach is one of the most important things to their success. This team has demonstrated greats amount of perseverance having to go against many tough opponents.
The girls have had something to prove this season, and aren’t done yet. The first playoff match-up for the girls puts them up against Shady Side Academy who is the fifth seed. The game will be on Monday, May 13 at Shady Side Academy.
“As a team, our greatest strength would be our ability to never give up,” Ray Mamas said. “We learned how to push through till the end and no matter what the score may be, never stop until the clock hits zero.”
