The girls varsity lacrosse team won its last two games on Monday and Tuesday against Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Portage Northern. Sophomores Delaney Smith and Gabby Hendricks combined for 17 out of the Rangers’ 26 goals scored in these two competitions. Throughout the season, Smith and Hendricks have led the Rangers in goals scored almost every single game. The two sophomores have stepped into leadership roles and are excelling at the position. 

Against Grand Rapids Catholic Central, the Rangers proved just how much they have improved throughout the season. In the first meeting, the Cougars defeated the Rangers 15-11. On Monday, FHC came out on top 14-12. A goal for the Rangers was to defend a Cougar key player that scored eight goals against the FHC defense in the first game. The Ranger defenders did an excellent job communicating during Catholic Central’s attacks on offense and were able to shut it down.

“I have seen a ton of improvement in several areas but some of the biggest that have paid off are being more patient and just overall being smarter on the field,” head coach Zoe Mamo said. “Also, showing heart and grit to win or at least compete with these tough teams has paid off.” 

The Rangers exhibited their patience, especially on offense. The Rangers ran through their set plays, focusing on finding a good shot or cut to the net. The conservative style of play led to enough goals for the Rangers to outlast the Cougars. 

“On offense, we played well and weren’t forcing the ball like in previous games; we slowed it down and this resulted in some clean cuts resulting in goals,” junior Sophie Hartl stated. “This win means a lot to us after they beat us in the first go-around. It shows the team how much we have improved, and that we can compete in conference play.”

On Tuesday, the girls traveled to Kalamazoo to face off against Portage Northern and again came out on top 12-7. Hendricks had four goals in the first half, which boosted the Rangers to an 8-4 lead at the end of the first half.  This win put the Rangers on a three-game winning streak for the first time all season. With two games remaining, the girls are looking to close out the regular season strong and potentially do well in the playoffs. 

“The win against Portage Northern was another good game for the girls and put us on a three-game win streak,” coach Mamo said. “I think that is huge for the team’s confidence as we finish out the rest of the season.”

On Friday, May 14th, FHC hosts Skyline High School at 6:00 PM in efforts to increase the winning streak.