As the spring season begins, the Girls Lacrosse Team has demonstrated impressive teamwork and determination. Under the guidance of their new coach, Coach Greco, the team has shown consistent growth and commitment throughout the season. In this spotlight, we take a closer look at the players and their coach, and their progress both on and off the field.
Coach Greco’s involvement as a coach of a sport’s team is fairly new to what she had experienced as an instructional teacher.
“It’s really fun to be the coach, and to interact with students in a different way than just being a teacher,” said Coach Greco, “You want to make sure everyone has a good experience and appreciates playing lacrosse.”
This year, new freshmen, as well as upperclassmen, have joined the lacrosse team. Coach Greco, and the players have noticed a shift in the team’s dynamic compared to previous seasons.
“Last year, there were some problems related to the person who was coaching the team. So far, the team is really strong in terms of how well they get along with each other. There’s very good chemistry on the field. There’s more stability this year compared to the previous year,” states Coach Greco.
The players have also experienced the time commitment and practicing that goes into playing lacrosse. Some feel it’s physically demanding to play, while others see it as a much needed escape from their school lives.
“It’s a period of time where you just focus on playing, and that’s it, you don’t think about anything else.” said Tanya Aguilera (26’), who plays as midfielder.
Ximena Andrade (’26), who plays in the defensive position, agrees: “Personally, I just have a lot going on throughout my day so it’s like, although it may be physically tiring, I get a break from all my work. Sometimes it can be a lot,”
Beyond the physical aspects of playing lacrosse, the players faced how lacrosse challenges them mentally and emotionally. Being part of a team taught the players how to communicate, support others, and navigate games through maturity. This goes especially with team interactions with other schools.
Tanya Aguilera (’26) shares, “There’s a lot of teams that can be very toxic. That’s a problem, playing a sport, not only do you have to be athletic but you also have to be disciplined,” explained Tanya Aguilera (26’), “If you’re being toxic, that says a lot about your character. I’m very proud that our team comes into the game respectfully.”
Similarly, Ximena Andrade (’26) emphasizes the importance of communication and attitude on the playing field: “Your attitude as a player reflects a lot about you, and the people around you. Personally, as a defense, I always try to talk to my defenders, even if I’m not an outgoing person. I always try to put myself out there.”
Coach Greco offers advice for new or hesitant players, especially those who may feel intimidated starting a sport they’ve never played before.
“Just practice on your own. I actually didn’t play lacrosse in high school, I learned in college and I played at UCSD. I can say I have first-hand experience, you learn from the coach, and the other players on the team, and you have to practice on your own. You have to be willing to be bad, and take advice from people. Eventually, you’re gonna see yourself improve,” Coach Greco encourages.
Since last season, the girls program has decreased in size. Coach Greco signifies the importance of attracting new players but also building a passionate community that can bring hope to the team’s future.
“I’m excited to see how the rest of the season plays out, and how the team grows together in these last few weeks. I’m hoping this will attract more attention for next year, and more people will be willing to play,” says Coach Greco.
