BY FRANK PAPEO
Sports Photo Editor
The girls’ lacrosse team continued to contend with top teams in the State with a 17-4 record, as they dominated the GMC and went undefeated in the conference.
The Knights repeated as GMC Champions and made their fourth GMC Tournament Final appearance in the last four years while earning their third championship in those last four years. “Winning our second consecutive GMC championship was such a fulfilling experience for the team. Coming into the season we knew it would take lots of hard work and determination to reach this goal. Personally, this time was so much more special because I held a different role on the team,” stated captain Karina Cracchiolo
The Knights earned their win against Monroe in the GMC Finals on May 18, going up early in the first quarter. “It feels great getting a big lead early, but also nerve racking because you can’t get too comfortable because games can change so quickly in lacrosse,” said defender Jada Kmiec.
The girls expanded their lead in the third as they scored three goals and finished their opponents off in the fourth quarter, ending the game 8-3. The team’s young core helped with three goals by freshman Reagon Connolly and two goals by sophomore Addison Albrecht. “Putting the game away was a great feeling knowing we won the finals,” expressed Albrecht.
Senior captain Jess Chin continued her remarkable season, earning GMC Offensive Player of the Year as she led the team with 90 points on 42 goals and 48 assists. “I try to put in full effort always because that’s what sets the tone for the rest of the team,” stated Chin. The senior midfielder displayed her skills, with three assists in the GMC finals against Monroe.
Chin’s 48 assists led the team. In fact, she collected more than twice as many assists as any other player. “Sharing the ball is a big factor of my game,” explained Chin. “Being able to create opportunities for my teammates is great.” Many of those passes went to leading scorer Reagen Connolly who has 61 goals this season and sophomore midfielder Adrienne Cabrera who contributed 49 goals, second on the team.
Cabrera shined under bright lights, scoring an important goal for the Knights in the GMC final. “It was a close game going into the second half so scoring that goal took some relief off our chest,” said Cabrera.
As the girls proved that they have the best offense in the GMC, they have an even better defense, with girls who control the backfield like junior Jada Kmiec, sophomore Sofia Cota, and senior goalie Gabriella Malanga. “Our defense plays a huge role in our wins, especially the win against Monroe in the Finals,” said Malanga.
Kmiec plays a huge role with the defense as her leadership helps the team stay dependable. “The role is crucial because being able to control the defense and pressure opponents is how we successfully win games,” expressed Kmiec.
Senior goalie Malanga keeps adding to the resume of her outstanding career. Malanga racked up 57 saves this year, finishing her career with 189 saves in her four years of varsity. “I am extremely proud of what I have done in this uniform, and I am grateful for the relationships I have made in my career,” stated Malanga.
The Knights wrapped up their phenomenal season with a record of 17-4 and winning the Red Division Championship and GMC Championship.
Posted on 6/11/24
Photos by Francesca Panetta and Dayami Viloria
Knight Life 