As the spring breeze passes through the Hoffman Estates outdoor field, so does the feeling of camaraderie and high spirits, regardless of what score the scoreboard for girls lacrosse shows. With every pass of the ball, determination and passion are cradled just as tightly as the game requires.
The girls lacrosse team has faced its share of ups and downs this season, but one thing that’s stayed strong is their commitment to each other. Through every practice and game, the team has worked to build chemistry and stay motivated.
“One of the biggest challenges our team has faced this season is our energy level,” said Karen Felix, sophomore. “Sometimes we walk into practice without the right mindset or intensity. To overcome that, we remind each other to stay locked in and bring the same energy we would in a game. It makes a big difference when everyone is all in.”
That focus came to life in a standout game against Buffalo Grove, where the team found its rhythm.
“The Buffalo Grove game was definitely a turning point in our season. All of our hard work and dedication showed on the field and it was such a great way to conclude our senior night,” said Maddy Bell, senior.
Even on a team, it’s easy to sometimes feel disconnected from teammates. Shared goals can get lost in personal expectations, and communication can turn spotty. But when a team is united, it becomes one of the strongest support systems there is. Brought together by a common want, a team at its best encourages individual growth while fostering a culture of understanding, trust, and connection among others with unique attributes and abilities.
“We all connected and played like a completely different team because we were working together and supporting each other,” said Kira Ruszkowski, sophomore. “We ended up getting the win, and afterward we celebrated by going out for boba. It was a fun moment that helped us bond even more as a team.”
With a focus on teamwork and mindset, the girls are finding ways to grow together on and off the field and making Hoffman Estates proud while doing so.
