Opportunity for growth: Westfield HS girls lacrosse program on the rise
WESTFIELD, Ind. — In the 2023 season, a new era began for the WHS Girls Lacrosse program. It achieved a significant milestone by becoming a high school sanctioned sport. This transition from club sport status has brought increased recognition and support from the school, marking a new era of growth and opportunity for the team. The program has also moved up to the 2A class, following their impressive achievements of winning the 1A State Championship in 2019 and finishing as the 1A State Runner-Up in 2021.
The team is building for the future. With the departure of nine seniors, six of whom were four-year varsity athletes, the upcoming season presents an opportunity for new players to step up and shine. Head Coach Kirk Reis, along with coaches Phil Schaefer, Sara Anderson, Keith Baumann, Jed Lee, Drew Lufkin, and Alina O’Farrell, are focused on fostering an environment that promotes growth and expansion. They aim to create and expand upon new traditions that will improve team chemistry and pave the way for the next generation of varsity athletes.
Leadership and traditions are a big part of the team culture. This past season, captains Ella Lowery, Kayla Reis, and Ally Weirick demonstrated exceptional leadership both on and off the field. Their commitment to improving team chemistry and their strong lacrosse IQ were invaluable to the team’s success.
Pregame rituals play a crucial role in preparing the team for competition. Music is a central element, with playlists energizing the players during bus rides to away games and before home games. This musical tradition helps the team focus and get in the right mindset for their matches.
The WHS Girls Lacrosse team prides itself on its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. New members are always greeted with open arms, and the program encourages athletes from other sports, such as hockey, basketball, volleyball, and soccer, to give lacrosse a try. The transition is often smooth, thanks to the transferable skills from these sports.
Celebrations are an integral part of the team’s culture. Post-game bus rides are filled with music and karaoke, allowing the team to bond and celebrate their accomplishments together. This year, the team recorded their best record since moving up to class 2A, achieving the most wins in a season and the lowest goals against.
To keep the team motivated, the WHS Girls Lacrosse program brought in Purdue University’s sports psychologist to discuss mental training and strategies for maintaining focus during games. The psychologist’s advice was a valuable resource throughout the season, helping the players stay positive and resilient in challenging situations.
As the WHS Girls Lacrosse program continues to grow, they remain committed to adding new members and fostering a team spirit that emphasizes hard work, dedication, and personal growth. The stick work may be challenging, but the rewards of playing high school lacrosse extend far beyond the field. The program offers a unique opportunity for athletes to compete, develop life skills, and build lasting friendships.
Head Coach Kirk Reis and his dedicated coaching staff are excited about the future of the WHS Girls Lacrosse program. With a strong foundation of traditions, leadership, and community support, the team is poised for continued success and growth in the seasons to come.
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