Riley Hurda ‘19
Photo courtesy of Josie Tomaino
Early in this spring season, the girls’ lacrosse proved that they are the ones to beat. Coming off a strong season last year during which the team tied for the Inter-Ac title, EA girl’s lacrosse have definitely had the targets on their backs this year. But after several key preseasons wins against nationally ranked teams, the girls’ lacrosse team entered Inter-Ac play this season with an undefeated record. With passionate leadership, strong chemistry, and determination, the EA team continued with dominance through the season winning games against rivals Agnes Irwin and Notre Dame.
“I think our coaches are really motivating in the way they prep us for every game and practice, which has really given us our drive and motivation throughout the season,” says Georgie Crockett ‘21. Coach Tomaino, who now enters her sixth season as EA head lacrosse coach, plays a big role in the team’s success. She explains, “We prepare in many different ways throughout the season. We build our fitness, footwork, stickwork and small-sided game IQ throughout the early season and then shift to larger team concepts and game prep later in spring. We try to build concepts and teach a lot while also keeping things fresh and fun for the girls.”
Coach Tomaino’s coaching strategies have definitely proven to be advantageous when it comes to game time. But Coach Tomaino explains that it’s not just about coaching lacrosse for her. She shares, “I really enjoy coaching because I love connecting life lessons with the sport and helping players grow into strong leaders both on and off the field.”
Not only is the Girls Lacrosse team headed by a spirited and passionate coach, but this year’s senior class have also been strong contributors and great leaders to this years team. They work hard to bring the team together as a whole and cohesive unit. Devon Whitaker ‘20 explains, “I think our senior leadership has been really strong this year. We have talented players on both ends of the field who have large contributors to this year’s undefeated record.” Madison Vetterlein ‘21 adds, “On the field, they carry such a big presence with their energy, which helps us stay focused on our goals rather than getting caught up in our mistakes.”
Four key players from this year’s senior class will be moving up to play lacrosse at the collegiate level. Izzy Rohr ‘19, who will be staying close to home next year playing lacrosse for the University of Pennsylvania. Coach Tomaino shares how she has played a large role in her recruiting process. Rohr adds, “Coach T has pushed me to be my best ever since freshman year. Her goal is for each player to get at least 1% better every day and she has instilled that mindset in all of her players,” says Rohr. Annie Rau ‘19 who will be attending Denison University, adds, “Coach T was extremely supportive and organized throughout my whole process! It would not have been possible without her.”
For the third year in a row, EA girls lacrosse has secured the Inter-Ac title. All of the players’ hard work has paid off and they are ecstatic. Sarah Groak ‘21 a player for the team says, “I can’t wait to see what we accomplish next season!”