Under the bright spring sun, goalie and captain Bea Hopper ‘27 stands planted in the crease, eyes locked on the field as the ball moved quickly down the turf.
Teammates call out defensive checks and sticks clash, a highlight of the intensity and teamwork that defined the strongest season in Masters varsity girls lacrosse history, ending with a 10-3 record. Anchoring the defense, Hopper recorded over 385 career saves. Frankie Navin ‘28, who has been on varsity since eighth grade has already achieved over 115 career goals. Through strong chemistry, disciplined defense and cohesive play across the field, the team quickly became one to watch on campus.
Despite being eliminated in the play-offs following a challenging loss to the Hackley School, players said overall focus remained on improvement, resilience and long-term goals rather than a perfect record.
“That game showed us we’re not where we want to be yet,” Hopper said. “We still have room to grow, and that is a really important lesson for us.”
Head Coach and Athletic Director Alexis Di Domenico said the 2026 season stood out as the strongest in her five years leading the program. She added that the team was “doing everything we asked them to do, and more.”
She continued by saying how the team’s drive and consistency were their greatest strength. “They really do play with a never-give-up attitude” which she said had “propelled them this far.” While acknowledging the short length of the spring season, she emphasized the role of leadership in building cohesion, highlighting the captains Maya Yoon, Clio Foley and Hopper.
With a mix of returning players and new talent, the team worked hard to create a supportive environment where everyone contributes. Hopper emphasized that creating a healthy environment has been just as important as improving technical skills and game strategy.
“We’ve done a really good job of creating a mini community and really being one team instead of individuals,” Hopper said.
Freshman Micaela Andrade said the team’s success also had a visible impact across campus.
“I would describe the season so far as very impactful, especially with our record,” Andrade said. “When you go around the school, there are a lot of people, saying ‘Oh my gosh, you guys are doing great.’”
She mentioned the team’s chemistry, developed from time spent together both on and off the field.
“Practices are definitely where we build the most chemistry, but also breaks, brunches after practice and just hanging out outside of practices,” she said.
Andrade notes how that connection directly translates into successful performances during games. “If you don’t have chemistry, you don’t have a team. It helped us work together and win,” she said.
As the season concluded, Andrade said she hopes to carry the energy from this year into the future while continuing to strengthen the reputation of the Masters girls lacrosse program. She aims to “just enjoy every moment.”
