The 2017-2018 Varsity Lady Patriots Lacrosse team will be led by senior Grace Holmes who was an All-Conference honorable mention last season, while juniors Sydney Peterman and Nicole Milde will make significant contributions.  Holmes is expected to lead the offense for Independence, she was the teams top scorer along with fellow senior teammates Layla Lombard, Olivia Carroll and Jesse Allion.  Meanwhile, midfielder and draw specialist Sydney Peterman, Tara Dees, Kayla Brock and Jessica Draffen are returning to continue their domination of the draw area for the Lady Patriots.

On the defensive side of the field Nicole Milde returns to the net who has gained solid experience and will be the starter to anchor the defense.  Returning senior Kayla Todaro, junior Janet Todaro, senior Carly Goodman and junior Carolina Jackson who is transitioning to defense from a midfielder position will solidify a strong defensive unit.

Other key players include sophomore Cammie Thomas who will play an integral role in the midfield position.  Juniors Sierra Connor and Payten Brown along with freshman Ella Holmes and Joni Gerringer give Independence depth.  Newcomers Selena Hinson and Ja’Niyah Ardrey will make an immediate impact for the Lady Patriots.

The team is well balanced with a solid group of returning players and some good new talent.  The club is expected to be strong both on offense and defense with depth and the numbers are stacked to their advantage.

Overall, Coach Melissa LaDez team will compete at a high level with potential to win their Conference.  “I expect to see a lot of success in our season, some of the new faces will shine on the field, supported by their more experienced teammates,” said Coach LaDez.