The girl’s lacrosse team took to the field for their first game of the season on Tuesday, April 8th, facing off against a strong Palisades High Charter High School team that had already played 11 games.

Though the scoreboard showed a 2-17 loss, the team walked away with their heads high, fueled by the drive to improve.

The captains and the coach remain optimistic about what lies ahead for their team. Led by senior captains Noya Spindler and Sadaf Bakhtiari, the team is composed mostly of first-time players, who are still learning the rules of the game.

Despite the team’s loss, they showed great potential that could be accessed through hard work during practice and devotion to learning the rules.

“We may not have won, but I really think everyone played with heart,” senior Chanel Anooshian said. “Everyone gave it their all, and that’s what matters most right now.”

Coach Ethel Hannan, who is entering her second season with the team, said she sees a strong foundation in her players. She praised the team’s potential because they’re fast learners, they hustle and they support each other. Coach Hannan believes that once they lock down the rules and strategies, “they’re going to be a different team.” 

The Normans will have multiple chances to grow, with a very busy game schedule this month.

“I’m very proud of how we kept pushing even when the score was tough,” Captain Spindler said. “This is just the beginning, we’ve got so many games coming up, which means that we’re only going to get better from here.”

The team returns to action this week with two upcoming games on Wednesday the 16th and Friday the 18th. They continue to develop their team and aim to gain experience for their new members.