Last season the Lady Patriots were 7-12 overall. As they prepare for this upcoming season and conference competition which includes Audrey Kell, Butler, Charlotte Catholic, Myers Park, Providence, and South Mecklenburg there will be many hard fought contests throughout the campaign.
The team will be led by two senior captains defensemen Hannah Cobb, and goal keeper Agisanyang Molapisi. These ladies have experience and a will to win. There leadership on an off the field will be an important ingredient to our success, said Coach Melissa LaDez Moore.
The team is packed with a solid sophomore and junior class. They will have depth in many positions with some new additions who are expected to make an immediate impact.
Other key players will be Lilly McConathy, a strong defensive player for the Patriots. Grace Holmes, a mid-fielder, Alltora Moore, a transfer from QGHS, a former soccer player who has decided to concentrate on lacrosse. Camryn Thomas, a freshman mid-fielder, Oliva Carroll is a key offensive player who can score from different angles. There are also Sydney Peterman, mid-fielder, and Tara Dees, mid-fielder. The “Brick Wall” which includes Sierra Connor, Kayla Brock, and Layla Lombard are all returning defenders from last year. Also, Maider Michelena, a foreign exchange student who has experience is expected to make a contribution. The team is getting prepared to field a solid starting lineup of 12 players and will have good depth in all positions when making substitutions.
This team has a lot of upside potential and they are good enough athletically to become a big factor in their conference. The girls have that “It” factor and the coaching staff just needs to get them to believe in themselves and to click and gel as a team. “We must come together as one solid working unit with a single goal to achieve our full potential; furthermore, we must create an atmosphere generating a positive mental attitude,” said Coach. The coach certainly expects this team to have a winning season and the future looks bright over the next few years based on their returning players who will have gained valuable experience and confidence moving forward.
The program has added Saint Stephens from Hickory to their schedule as a non-conference game, which should prepare the girls for conference competition. The Lady Patriots will open the season at home against powerhouse Charlotte Catholic on February 27th at 5:00 PM.
