Many young players must learn on the fly

There is a common theme among almost every area girls’ lacrosse program. Experienced players must assist their younger, inexperienced teammates to find success. In girls’ lacrosse, unlike many sports, there is little opportunity for organized competition before reaching the high school level.

Therefore, it becomes important that the upperclassmen quickly help their new teammates become acclimated to the game.

Rampart’s Abigail Peterson, Danielle Walker and Karlie Shaha relish the opportunity to pass on knowledge the same way it was passed to them.

“Working with the inexperienced players brings us closer together as a team,” said Peterson, a junior midfielder.

“The more advanced players become even more confident in their abilities because now they are looked at as leaders.”

Senior defender Danielle Walker discussed preparations: “We started the season by going over the basics again, which is good and bad at the same time. The team aspect is such a critical part of the game that it is very important that everyone is on the same level.”

Karlie Shaha, a senior defender/goalie, echoed her teammate’s insights: “It can be very frustrating for players to learn all the nuances of the game. This is especially true when it comes to applying practice knowledge into a game situation. However, I am very excited with how quickly the freshmen are progressing. They are picking things up at a much quicker rate than I did starting off.”

Some of the schools, such as Lewis-Palmer, have begun club programs to introduce the sport at a younger age.

“The club programs are definitely growing, which is great to see,” said Kendra Weiler, a senior attacker at Lewis-Palmer. “It is good that the freshmen are coming in with some experience. These underclassmen are starting to push the leaders, so it makes our team better overall.”

Katelyn McIntosh, a senior midfielder, said the club aspect has benefitted the program.

“It is difficult when players come in without experience because there isn’t a foundation to start off of,” McIntosh said. “The club program definitely affects the high school program because the coaches can start them at a higher level.”

“The players that have the experience can instantly make a big impact,” senior goalie Caitlin Dyche said. “With the inexperienced players, I try to stay upbeat and positive while they learn the fundamentals including the rules and technique.”

Inexperience can also bear an unexpected benefit, trust. When a team is forced to increase skill level and knowledge together, it creates a more team-oriented atmosphere. Rampart senior Karlie Shaha said, “You can’t play with people you don’t trust. It is good to know that regardless of the outcome, you will still be friends and still be a team.”