Sophomore Julia Flynn looks upfield after scooping a ground ball during Franklin’s 16-6 win over fellow league leader Foxboro. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)
FOXBORO, Mass. – Just inside the final minute of the first half of Monday afternoon’s division leader showdown at Sam Berns Community Field, Cate Noone picked of an errant clearance to get a free run on goal, cutting the Franklin lead down to just two. As the final seconds ticked off, the Panthers had a chance from close range but Audrey Campbell came up with a big kick save, one of her five stops in the game.
It was just a two-goal lead at the break, as close as any Hockomock team had been to the Panthers at halftime this season.
On the visiting bench, Kristin Igoe Guarino had a frank conversation with her team about how things were going, while the Warriors carried their momentum into the second half and, with 19 minutes to play, Foxboro had the lead down to just one. The home fans were starting to believe that the upset was going to happen.
Franklin found another gear. The Panthers would lose only one draw from that point forward (winning 18-of-23 for the game) and rattled off nine straight goals, turning a close battle into a 16-6 win, extending their long league unbeaten streak by another game and clinching at least a share of their 13th straight league title.
“We had a nice chat at halftime,” Igoe Guarino explained. “I think we were kind of dissatisfied with our play. Give a lot of credit to Foxboro, they’re a really good team, they had long offensive possessions, and we just got frustrated at halftime. I think they just took that dissatisfaction into the second half and really turned it around.”
Foxboro coach Kathleen McCullough said, “I think they kind of figured out what we were doing and second half they just came out a little tougher, faster. We couldn’t sustain it for as long as we hoped but I’m proud of the defense. We’ll learn from it and move on.”
The visitors needed little time to take the lead, as Kaitlyn Carney (three goals and four assists) broke the deadlock after just 40 seconds. Foxboro answered right back, with Mya Waryas setting up Paige Curran (goal and two assists) for a nice, lefty finish that evened things back up.
Franklin started to put pressure on the Warriors defense. Katie Peterson (four goals and three assists) had an 8-meter chance go over the bar, but Foxboro turned it over and Carney found Peterson on a nice cut to regain the lead. Jamie Tanner then found Emily Carney, who had a nice shot fake before scoring, and Kaitlyn Carney teed up Tanner for a low-angle shot to make it 4-1.
After the Panthers scored three times in just two minutes, Foxboro made sure to make its next possession count. The Warriors held the ball for several minutes before Waryas had a shot stopped by Ella Mahoney (two saves). After a quick turnover, Curran went just wide with a chance, but she recovered to find Val Beigel (three goals) at the post to make it 4-2.
Peterson nearly responded with a goal right off the draw but Campbell made the stop. Lindsay Atkinson (three goals) would make it 5-2 with a great dodge down the middle of the defense. Curran set up Beigel again and Foxboro had the ball back, but Julia Flynn came up with a big ground ball to regain possession and Peterson scored on the other end.
Inside the final minute, Franklin had the ball and a three-goal lead and looked ready to put a little cushion on the scoreboard before the break, but Noone made a great read and equally adept catch to get a free run on goal. She finished to cut the lead to 6-4. The Panthers would get one more look before halftime only for Carney to see her shot kicked aside by Campbell.
Things continued to be back-and-forth after the break. Mahoney made a nice kick save to deny Beigel on a free position, but Waryas hit Beigel on a cut down the middle and she planted a shot under the bar. Carney restored a two-goal lead with a strong solo move and sidearm finish but, after Noone won the draw, Waryas showed off her own moves with a spin back and shot inside the post that made it 7-6.
It felt like the Warriors were on the cusp of handing Franklin its first league loss since 2012.
Just nine minutes later, the Panthers were on the cusp of running time.
Tanner (four goals and an assist) got the run started, making a nice move down the middle and going five-hole with her shot. After winning the draw, Carney picked out Atkinson cutting across the middle and she made no mistake with a quick release. Emily Carney then forced a Foxboro timeout, as she managed to squeeze a shot over Campbell while stumbling under pressure.
McCullough said, “We’ve gained that confidence from our wins over Hingham and Cohasset, just knowing we can play with some top teams, but we have to do it for 50 minutes. I’m very proud of that first half, but transferring it to the second half is what we need to practice.”
Franklin was undeterred by the break in play. Tanner rang the post with a shot, Campbell made a nice stop on a bouncing shot by Atkinson, and then Peterson got her bounce past the goalie to make it 11-6. A minute later, Tanner picked the bottom corner on an 8-meter try. Two minutes after that, Peterson showed great patience with the ball, waiting for Atkinson to pop free on the edge of the crease for another goal.
“We ask a lot from Katie,” Igoe Guarino said of Peterson. “To play middie pretty much the whole game, to take and win draws, to play defense, to clear, and then be able to shoot and feed. She pretty much does a lot of everything for us.”
While Franklin was pulling away thanks to its attacking prowess, the Panthers were also making the stops on the other end of the field. Maeve Grasso stuck with her mark and scooped a ground ball, finding Riley Cross (who just returned from injury) to start the break. Peterson would find Tanner for the goal.
“Their offensive possessions were great and it does kind of make a defense antsy but I think we held strong,” Igoe Guarino said of her defense. “We got beat on some of the lefty crease rolls but we were able to point that out and tried to stop that in the second half.”
Peterson continued to dish out great passes, hitting Kaitlyn Carney for hat trick. Mary Collins would have two free position opportunities for Foxboro but both times Franklin recovered to make the block, while in between getting a stick on a Beigel shot to force it high. Peterson would wrap up the scoring on a great feed from Carney, sealing another big win.
Igoe Guarino said, “I so appreciate how well Foxboro played they gave us that challenge. I think we get complacent sometimes from other games and that’s why we started slow. I think the challenge is definitely helpful.”
“We knew it was going to be a test and we’ve been craving that,” McCullough added. “Playoffs, that’s the feel you get, it’s intense, it’s physical, so I think it’s good preparation.”
Franklin (11-2, 9-0) will be on the road on Friday to take on the top team in the state, Notre Dame Academy. Foxboro (12-2, 8-1) will get a week off before traveling to Sharon with a chance of clinching at least a share of an 11th straight Davenport title.
Foxboro senior Mya Waryas has been selected as the HockomockSports.com Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, for April 24 through April 30. Waryas is the 26th player chosen as Player of the Week for the 2022-23 school year and fourth in the spring season.
Waryas had a big week for the Warriors, recording 16 points, including the 100th goal of her career, as Foxboro rolled to three more wins, improving to 9-1 on the season. Waryas scored six times and dished out 10 assists in the week, as Foxboro inches closer to an 11th straight league title. The Warriors are currently second in the league in goals scored and in fewest goals allowed, behind only Franklin in both categories.
“Mya has always been one of our most dynamic and unselfish attackers,” said Foxboro coach Kathleen McCullough. “She’s continuously looking to set others up and be the spark when we need her.”
On Monday, Foxboro kicked off a busy week with a solid non-league win over Hopkinton. Waryas led the way with seven points, scoring a pair of goals and setting up five others in the 15-8 victory. A day later, Foxboro beat Milford 16-3 and Waryas was a major part of it again, adding a goal and a pair of helpers. The Warriors kept rolling on Thursday in their first varsity game against Stoughton. Waryas had a hat trick of goals and assists, including the 100th goal of her career.
The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision.
Mya Waryas
Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision. Mya Waryas The Player of the Week, presented by Morse Insurance, is selected by the HockomockSports.com staff. Nominations can be submitted throughout the week up until Saturday night at midnight. There may be a poll posted on every Sunday with the nominations. The results of the poll influence the selection but do not strictly dictate the decision.
Sophomore Gabi Consigli had two goals and an assist, one of seven goal scorers for Franklin, in a win over second-place King Philip. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)
WRENTHAM, Mass. – Prior to Franklin becoming the dominant power in the Hockomock League, King Philip was the team to beat. The Warriors won six straight titles from 2003-2008 and, after Franklin won in 2010 and 2011, shared the title with Franklin in 2012.
Since that spring 11 years ago, the Panthers have been literally unbeatable. The Panthers have won 12 straight league titles and more than 100 straight league games.
On Wednesday afternoon at Macktaz Field, KP got another shot at ending that streak and pulling level with the Panthers atop the division. If the hosts were hoping to pull the upset, then they needed to have a good start to build confidence, but Franklin, which was playing its third game in as many days, took control from the opening draw and never looked back.
The Panthers scored the first six goals of the game and allowed just one KP goal in the second half to earn the 14-4 win, building a two-game lead on the Warriors in the standings.
“I think we start strong, and we have to continue to start strong, it’s just when we get tired then we have some lulls so we have to work on that,” said Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino, whose team was playing its third game in as many days.
KP coach Kourtnie Wilder said of her team, “They keep trying, that’s for sure, but I think at this part of the season we need to pick up our heads and have a stronger lacrosse IQ because these are the teams we’re going to face in the tournament. We need to know how to play the full 50 minutes and what the game plan is.”
Franklin needed less than a minute to pull into the lead. Kaitlyn Carney cut down the middle and was able to make a nice catch and finish. Three minutes later, KP came close to tying it with Kelly Holmes cutting across the crease but Ella Mahoney made her lone save of the first half. Katie Peterson would find Emily Carney on a nice cut but Kaitlyn Parish (three saves) made a nice stop.
Nearly five minutes in, the Panthers doubled the lead. Peterson (two goals and four assists) again was the creator, hitting Gabi Consigli on the run. A minute later, Lindsay Atkinson (two goals and an assist) teed up Jamie Tanner to make it 3-0. With Carney winning all the early draws, Franklin kept the pressure on and Katherine Ryan (three goals and an assist) found Atkinson on a cut to make it four.
Peterson and Alyssa Legere each hit the post on opposite ends of the field, but the Panthers just kept rolling. Carney (two goals and three assists) kept finding space and time behind the cage to distribute and she found Ryan for a man-up score and then Consigli to make it 6-0 midway through the first half.
“We always like to have balance on attack,” said Igoe Guarino. “We started playing Gabi Consigli and she had two goals as well, so the more confident all seven people on offense can be than the harder it is to stop.”
KP won its first draw control of the day and turned the possession into its first goal. Makenzie McDevitt (three goals and an assist) drew the attention of the Franklin defense and she was able to pick out Abby MacDonald, who went with the bounce to get KP on the board.
Franklin answered right back with Emily Carney going under the bar on a free position. KP had a little energy though and got the next two goals. McDevitt picked the bottom corner with a nice angled shot and then went low on a free position from the other side of the crease to cut the lead to just 7-3.
The Panthers regained control with a strong defensive effort. Kaitlyn Carney forced a turnover on a KP clear and Peterson set up Tanner in front to make it 8-3. After Parish came up with a nice stop on Carney’s sidearm effort, Tanner would force the turnover on the ride and quickly head back up field, finding Peterson for the score.
With 1:33 left in the half, Carney again played provider to give Ryan a clear look on goal and she buried it for a 10-3 lead.
KP came out for the second half looking energized. McDevitt won the first draw of the half and raced right on goal to score after just 10 seconds, but it was the final goal that the Warriors would get.
“They kept battling,” said Wilder. “They know that Franklin is a talented program and what we try to tell them is so are we and just unfortunately some of the shots didn’t go our way. We didn’t move the goalie, Ella played really well today, and I think that’s what made the difference.”
Eight minutes into the second half, Peterson drove down the middle and the UMass-commit finished. Atkinson, a Merrimack-commit, added another a minute later, and Carney, who is headed to James Madison, went sidearm again to increase the lead to 13-4 with 16 minutes to play. Four minutes later, Peterson got her fourth assist of the night on a nice finish by Ryan, who completed her hat trick.
While KP went the final 24 minutes without a goal, the Warriors had several good looks. McDevitt, Legere, MacDonald, and Nicole McDonald each had chances from close range, but Mahoney (seven saves) came up big down the stretch to keep KP at bay.
“They have some good offensive players, we were just more ready to send a flash or help and play as a team instead of leaving someone out one-on-one,” said Igoe Guarino. “I think once we started playing together as a unit and helping stop their best players it worked out for us.”
Igoe Guarino also praised Mahoney for being there to make big stops as the Panthers started to tire late in the game. She said, “She’s been doing great. KP only had one goal in the second half and credit to Ella for making the stops.”
Franklin (8-2, 6-0) can clinch at least a share of the league title with three wins next week, starting on Monday at Milford. King Philip (5-4, 4-2) will try to bounce back on Monday when Oliver Ames comes to Wrentham.
Canton and Oliver Ames both reached the postseason last spring. Read our team-by-team breakdown of the upcoming girls lacrosse season. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
2022 Record: 3-14 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Shane Collins
It has been a few years since Attleboro challenged for a playoff spot, but the Bombardiers are hoping that the program is taking steps to get back to that level. First-year coach Shane Collins inherits a group with some varsity experience and a little more depth in the roster to try and exceed the three wins from 2022.
Attleboro’s attack will be led by senior Jordan Mooney, a three-year starter, and classmate Stella Krawiec, whose speed adds a different dimension on offense. Sophomore Isabella Cavallini gained a lot of experience as a freshman and could have a breakout year. Junior Molly Moore and freshman Amelia Collins will also get chances to contribute in attack.
Junior Addison Papagolos will be a key player in midfield, making an impact at both ends of the field. Senior Gabriela Sprovieri will also chip in. Senior Ella Stromfors is a three-year starter in defense and her leadership will be invaluable for the Bombardiers alongside juniors Kristin Vasquez-Trudeau and Leandra Lennon. Sophomore Peyton McAuliffe is in goal after seeing some action in the cage as a freshman.
“There’s nothing but upside for this team,” said Collins. “Most of these girls have at least a season of varsity lacrosse under their belts. I feel we have some depth in the midfield, attackers improving on getting to the cage, and a defense and keeper who are communicating extremely well leading up to the start of the season. Our success this season truly hinges on everyone’s commitment to the team-first mentality.”
2022 Record: 14-4 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Casey Bradley
Under first-year coach (and former player) Casey Bradley, Canton saw a resurgence in 2022. The Bulldogs battled Foxboro for the league title all the way to the final game of the regular season and returned to the state tournament. This season, Canton returns loads of talent to make another title challenge and try to add a playoff victory.
Midfield is going to be a strength for the Bulldogs. Junior Devan Spinale is a talented, speedy player with a great finishing touch. Senior Emily McCabe provides the team with endless energy at both ends of the field and was the team’s leading scorer last year. Freshman Nora Giannacopoulos has been impressive in the preseason and there is a lot of potential for her to make an instant impact.
The attack is spearheaded by senior Ella Yeaton, another quick, skillful player who can break down opposition defenses. Canton’s strength last year was its defense and the Bulldogs will be leaning on a couple of experienced players to keep that solidity going into the new season. Juniors Tori Carr and Ava Gilmore are vocal leaders who will maintain the organization in front of goal.
“I am very excited to work with this talented group and continue to build on the foundation from last year,” Bradley said. “We have a ton of returners who will lead the way for the younger girls. The girls are super happy to be back and love working with each other every day.”
2022 Record: 14-6 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Quarterfinal (Davenport champion) Coach: Kathleen McCullough
Foxboro came within a goal of reaching the Div. 3 Final Four last year and the Warriors bring back a strong core that should be among the contenders for the D3 title again this spring. The 10-time defending Davenport division champions have experience all over the field, return their top two scorers from last year, and are focused on making another tournament run.
The Warriors were the second-highest scoring team in the Hock last year and should be right there again, as seniors Paige Curran, the reigning league MVP and HockomockSports.com Player of the Year, and Mya Waryas spearhead a deep, talented group of attackers. Senior Grace Riley and sophomore Cate Noone and junior midfielders Val Beigel and Mary Collins will add even more offensive punch.
Senior Jenney Gallagher is a vocal leader in the defense and she’s not afraid to rush forward and cause problems for the opposition on the other end of the field as well. Junior Ella Campbell is an experienced defender who can disrupt opposing attacks. Sophomore Audrey Campbell gained confidence from a strong freshman season, including a couple of impressive displays in the playoffs, and will be a leader in goal.
“I am thrilled to get back to work with this group of girls,” said Foxboro coach Kathleen McCullough. “They are extremely hardworking and motivated to make a playoff run this year. Right now, we are focusing on team chemistry and game strategies as we approach a schedule that poses some tough opponents and challenges.”
2022 Record: 18-3 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Quarterfinal (Kelley-Rex champion) Coach: Kristin Igoe Guarino
Franklin has been untouchable in the Hockomock League for a decade. Last spring, the Panthers extended their league winning streak to more than 90 games and they come into this season as the heavy favorites to bring home another Kelley-Rex title. Expectations remain sky-high for a program that only seems to reload, not rebuild, and the Panthers will continue to have aspirations to challenge the best programs in the state and compete for a first state title.
The experience in the midfield will be key to Franklin’s season. Senior Kaitlyn Carney led the team with 50 goals in the regular season in 2022 and classmate Katie Peterson was right behind her with 65 points. Seniors Jamie Tanner and Lindsay Atkinson will also return in what should be a dynamic attacking unit. What makes Franklin so difficult to play against is that all of those midfielders also contribute on the other end as well. Senior Payten Crandall will be back in the heart of the defense, giving the team needed leadership in front of its own goal.
As always, when players graduate, Franklin has new players ready to step into the lineup. Junior Katie Ryan will add to the attacking firepower up front, while sophomore Sophia Sacchetti will add to the midfield. Both were on varsity last season but will have bigger roles to play this spring. Freshman midfielder Vera Hansen, the lone rookie on the roster, will also get the chance to show off her speed. Junior Keira Kucich will join Crandall in defense in front of sophomore goalie Ella Mahoney, who’s had a strong start to the season.
“I am really looking forward to the 2023 season,” said Franklin coach Kristin Igoe Guarino. “We have a good mix of upperclassmen leaders and new players who are ready to step up. Every player has an important role on this team, and if we play together we can go far!”
2022 Record: 14-6 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Sweet Sixteen Coach: Kourtnie Wilder
King Philip is coming off another strong season. The Warriors lost only once in the league, to Franklin, and went on the road to beat Needham in the opening round of the state tournament. KP returns 12 players from last year’s team and will lean on its experienced defenders to keep the team in the hunt for a first league title since 2012.
Senior goalie Emily Campbell will be back in the cage this season and her leadership and shot-stopping will be important for the Warriors. Junior Lily McNulty can play in defense or midfield and is another experienced player who can limit the opposition
In attack, the Warriors will have some new faces stepping in and familiar faces who will have much bigger roles. Sophomore Makenzie McDevitt is coming off a breakout freshman season and could be pivotal as either an attacker or a midfielder. Juniors Alyssa Legere and Nicole McDonald will also be counted on to fire in the goals and junior midfielder Sarah Brown can help at both ends of the field.
“We are looking forward to working with this new group,” said KP coach Kourtnie Wilder. “The team has worked hard so far and put in work in the offseason. A lot of our players are multi-sport athletes, and play other sports together and have great chemistry. We as a coaching staff are excited to see what this group can do this spring.”
2022 Record: 9-6 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Preliminary Round Coach: Mary Kiley
After a tough start to 2022, Mansfield went on a six-game win streak to close out the regular season (four of those wins by three goals or fewer) and earned a trip to Westford Academy in the first round of the playoffs. The Hornets will be hoping that the momentum from that late-season run will carry over to 2023 and that they can make a title challenge in their first spring in the Davenport division.
Offensively, the team will lean on senior Ava Adams. The team’s leading scorer from last season is a dynamic playmaker and she can open up chances for the entire attack. On defense, experience will be key for the Hornets. Senior goalie Caitlin Zajac returns to be the backstop for the defensive group and classmate Audrey Murphy gives the Hornets much-needed leadership at the back.
Mansfield is counting on the experience gained last year to build depth throughout the roster. Senior Brooke Butler, juniors Keira Fitzpatrick and Lola Varricchione, and sophomore Ella Palanza will play big roles in the midfield, supporting the attack but also dropping in and bolstering the defense.
“We’re having a great start to the season – focusing on fundamentals like our fitness and stickwork, but also elevating our play with high-intensity drills that are super competitive as well as team building,” said Mansfield coach Mary Kiley. “We have a large, talented team and are looking to strategize by using quicker, line-type subbing (like hockey) that will allow us to always have fresh legs on the field. Overall, the team is confident, hard-working, and ready to bring it in our new division!”
2022 Record: 11-9 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Preliminary Round Coach: Kacey Young
Milford is coming off one of the best seasons in program history. Under first-year coach Kacey Young, the Hawks won 11 games and reached the postseason for the first time in nearly a decade. Now the challenge is building off that success and trying to continue the momentum that has been created around the program.
The Hawks return 15 seniors from last year’s team, so there will be plenty of experience on the field, even with the graduation of leading scorer Aislinn Bennett. Offensively, several players will be counted on to step up and provide scoring punch, including senior midfielders Emily Croteau and Carly Haley. Senior Jordan Douglas and junior Erin Michelson will add to the attack along with a talented group of sophomore newcomers: TJ Downing, Yas Martinez, Alexa Landry, and Kaitlin Landry.
Experience will be a strength of Milford’s defense. Senior Caitlyn Bangert had an impressive 2022 in goal and will be back in the cage to provide vocal leadership and organization. In front of Bangert, seniors Tessa Scrimgeour, Sophia Soares, and Molly Hartman form a cohesive group to try and keep opposing attackers at bay.
“Our focus this year is to continue to work together as a team, celebrate the successes and growth, learn from our mistakes, and have fun,” Young explained. “With 15 seniors on the team, their leadership is spread across the field in all positions. Every player will be a contributor on this team and I look forward to seeing them all play together this season.”
2022 Record: 7-12 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Amanda Welch
After reaching the playoffs in 2022, North Attleboro returns to the Kelley-Rex division this spring with a roster that is significantly younger. The Rocketeers graduated nearly all of its starting lineup, so the opportunity is there for a lot of players to make instant contributions.
Midfield is where most of North’s experience will be, including its two returning starters. Seniors Ava McKeon and Caroline Folan are the top two scorers coming back for North but also give the Rocketeers athleticism, energy, and leadership all over the field.
As expected from a team that graduated so much of its lineup, there will be a lot of newcomers that will get valuable varsity experience this year. North has a talented sophomore group that could be poised for big seasons. Lily Ramm and Ellie Regan will be in the attack and Carleigh Swenson will step into the defense.
“For our 2023 season we are looking up,” said North coach Amanda Welch. “Despite losing 90% of our starting lineup of seniors, we have really put in the work in the offseason and it’s showing. We have a bright future for this team as we recruited young talent that will help fill the gaps of those seniors. The girls have come to play this year and we will be a team to look out for.”
2022 Record: 11-8 2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32 Coach: Marisol Henderson
Oliver Ames reached the state tournament a year ago and the Tigers are looking to make another playoff run this spring under first-year coach Marisol Henderson. With only one senior on the roster, OA is going to lean heavily on younger players to step into big roles, but there is a lot of excitement about the potential on the roster.
Senior Catie Wilson is the team’s top returning scorer and she’ll lead the team from the front. Juniors Leanna Hudson and Kayla Magit add to OA’s attacking strength. Junior Olivia O’Rourke will be the key to the midfield. The St. Anselm commit provides energy on both ends of the field. Junior Hailey Goldman and sophomore Summer Silverman have been aggressive through preseason and junior Erin Cottam has the potential for a breakout season.
Junior goalie Claire O’Rourke will bring vocal leadership to the defensive group. Juniors Taylor McAndrew and Gennie Fulford have a lot of skill at cutting off opposition attacks. Freshman Molly Nager has already shown how her speed could be a threat on the break and has the potential to be an instant contributor.
“I have been really impressed by the positive energy and hard work that the team has shown,” Henderson said. “It has also been great to see how well they support each other. They are coming into another season with a new coach, and it can be tough to not have consistency from one year to the next, but they aren’t letting that get to them and they are eager to learn. We have a lot of potential and I am looking forward to seeing improvements every game.”
2022 Record: 0-20 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Ali Bowery
Sharon is coming off a difficult 2022 season. The Eagles were unable to find a win last year, although they did have two losses by just a single goal, and are in the midst of a rebuild under first-year coach Ali Bowery. She is leaning on her experienced seniors to get the team ready to compete this spring.
One of the seniors who the Eagles will count on this season is goalie Tess Letendre, who has been a solid shot-stopper for each of the past three years. Senior Carly Buckman will also provide much-needed vocal leadership. Juniors Anna Hertzel and Keira Lydeard have been named captains and give the Eagles energy on both ends of the field.
Underclassmen to watch out for this season include sophomore Bailey Garte, who is a three-sport varsity athlete, and classmate Megan Porcaro. Bowery has been impressed with the pair’s stick work and speed in the preseason. Overall, Bowery is expecting Sharon’s attack to be more potent this season.
“I have a great group of girls that all mesh well with each other,” Bowery said. “They have been working hard during practice improving their shots and ball movement. I am looking forward to the start of the season. I am rebuilding the program and this group of girls will take it to the next level!”
2022 Record: n/a 2022 Finish: n/a Coach: Kelly Fahey
Stoughton is making its varsity debut this spring and head coach Kelly Fahey is looking forward to seeing how the Black Knights can bring the chemistry built over the past few seasons to fully compete in the Hockomock League.
A pair of sisters will be important players for Stoughton as it makes the jump into varsity. Junior attacker Morgan Groppi and freshman midfielder Casey Groppi and junior midfielder Nicole Reid and freshman attacker Amanda Reid bring versatility and lacrosse experience to the field. That foursome will be counted on to create opportunities for themselves and their teammates, while also helping out in other areas of the game.
Junior Mia Rivera is moving up from defense to attack and her aggression and defensive instincts will be helpful at that end of the field. Sophomore Lily Nourse is a versatile newcomer who can play on either end.
“We have a lot of girls who are not afraid to take shots and create opportunities,” Fahey said. “The girls have been playing together for a few years and have solid team chemistry. This is our first year as a varsity program and we are excited to compete.”
2022 Record: 2-14 2022 Finish: Missed postseason Coach: Adilson Galvao
After graduating the program’s all-time leading scorer, Taunton was bound to have a rebuilding season in 2022. The Tigers had a pair of one-goal wins against Sharon, but with only 68 goals scored Taunton struggled to pick up any other results. Second-year coach Adilson Galvao is hoping that a year of experience will be a boost for the young Tigers and see a big improvement this spring.
Some of the players who seem ready for a big step up this season include senior midfielders Kayla Bayanilla and Hailey Tanguay, both of whom can contribute on both ends of the field. Senior Raquel Azevedo and sophomore Madison Szala will lead the way on the attacking end, while junior Cali Melo brings her athleticism into the midfield.
Newcomers who have made instant impacts during preseason play are freshmen Taryn Campbell and Lillian Bonneau. Galvao is excited about the connections that are already building between his attacking players. Senior Melissa Jesus will be an important leader for the Tigers this year, as she returns in the goal to keep things organized at the back.
“The team has a mix of new, young, and returning faces that are all determined to become a better player for themselves and towards the team,” Galvoa said. “This year’s season will show the maximum potential and ambition these girls have towards the game of lacrosse.”
Foxboro senior Paige Curran is one of the players to watch when the Hockomock League kicks off the girls lacrosse season. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) By HockomockSports.com Staff
Adams was one of Mansfield’s top performers on both ends of the field last season, giving the Hornets not only goals but valuable leadership. With Adams leading the way, Mansfield closed the regular season on a six-game win streak that clinched a winning season and a spot in the tournament. The St. Michael’s-commit scored 52 goals and dished out five assists in 15 games last year. She also grabbed 36 draw controls and was someone that could be counted on to help out with the defensive side of the game. Mansfield will be in the Davenport division this spring and will be hoping to challenge Foxboro and Canton for the league title, so Adams’ development as one of the league’s most consistent attackers will be a big part of that push.
Milford had a huge turnaround season under first-year coach Kacey Young, reaching the state tournament for the first time in nearly a decade. Bangert was a standout during her junior season, stopping more than 200 shots and backstopping the Hawks’ defense. A tough, aggressive goalie, Bangert provided the necessary leadership at the back that helped Milford pick up some impressive wins and get to the playoffs. This season, Milford will try to follow up a little history with another tournament run and Bangert’s ability as a shot stopper will be crucial for the Hawks earning enough results to keep playing into June.
After scoring goals that nearly won Franklin its first state title as a sophomore, Carney continued to develop her all-around game last year and was one of the most dynamic players in the Hock. The James Madison commit finished with 60 goals, 19 assists, 46 draw controls, and 30 caused turnovers, while earning Eastern Mass. all-star honors. Carney’s impact all over the field was evident by leading the Panthers in both goals and caused turnovers. Her tenacity is unmatched and Carney never shies away from a physical battle. That also carries into the attacking zone, where Carney combines that energy with creativity around the cage to be one of the league’s top finishers. Franklin continues to be one of the top programs in the state and Carney will be right in the middle of the quest to bring home a first state championship.
A big theme among the top players in the league is that they can impact the game in multiple ways and Curran was one of the prime examples, making winning plays on both ends of the field for the defending Davenport champions. The reigning league MVP and HockomockSports.com Player of the Year passed the 100-point and 100-goal marks for her career last season and got the Warriors within a goal of a spot in the Div. 3 Final Four. The Stonehill commit scored 79 goals and dished out 36 assists, including 15 points during Foxboro’s playoff run, and was named an Eastern Mass. all-star. Her creativity, poise, composure, and leadership make her a dominant force in the Foxboro midfield. The Warriors will be in the mix for a D3 title this year and Curran’s return gives them a strong foundation for a tournament run.
Canton had a strong first season under former player Casey Bradley and one of the players that stood out for the Bulldogs was McCabe. A three-sport player, McCabe’s athleticism and energy were a driving force in the Canton midfield, providing not only a playmaker on offense but a solid contributor in the defensive half. An all-around player, McCabe scored 45 goals and dished out 20 assists last season. She also grabbed 36 draw controls and 20 ground balls. Her quickness, physicality, and vision allowed her to find room for scoring chances against even the top defenses. The Bulldogs came within a game of league champ Foxboro last year and will hope to continue that challenge into the new season and McCabe will be right there to propel Canton up the Davenport standings.
McDevitt put together an impressive first season with the Warriors, stepping into a veteran lineup and providing an instant attacking dynamic. The reigning HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year showed off her all-around game as a freshman, scoring 40 goals and recording nine assists. Over the course of the spring, McDevitt grew into one of the team’s most consistent attackers with her strong finishing and stick skills. She also helped out in other areas of the field, pulling down 60 draw controls and grabbing 13 ground balls. The Warriors will continue to set their sights on taking down Franklin and ending the Panthers’ control of the Kelley-Rex and McDevitt is one of the players with the potential to send KP up the league standings.
North Attleboro returns to the Kelley-Rex this season and the Rocketeers will be hoping that there will also be a return to the state tournament. McKeon will be one of the players that North is counting on to get the results it needs to reach the playoffs. A strong, athletic midfielder, McKeon was one of the team’s leading scorers last season with 21 goals and seven assists, but she was also a physical presence on the defensive end. Her energy and leadership has been a factor in all three sports she’s played and McKeon can be a driving force for the Rocketeers. North will be looking to turn around a couple of those close games that may have kept them out of the tournament last year and McKeon’s intensity will be a major factor in getting the Rocketeers into the top 32 in Div. 2.
Each year, Franklin graduates a ton of talent and each year the Panthers return with lineups loaded with some of the league’s top players. Peterson is an impact player on both ends of the field, not only scoring big goals but also being one of the team’s top defensive midfielders. The UMass commit scored 43 goals and dished out 30 assists to help Franklin extend its league-winning streak to more than 90 games. Peterson was also a force on the draw, pulling down 64 draw controls, and her quickness, athleticism, and, length controlled play on the defensive end of the field. She was named an Eastern Mass. all-star. Franklin remains the favorite in the Kelley-Rex and one of the top teams in the state and Peterson will be right at the heart of it all this season as one of the top returning scorers in the Hockomock.
Foxboro continues to dominate the Davenport division, having won 10 straight league titles, and this year the Warriors will be looking to have a significant say in the Div. 3 tournament as well. An experienced and talented attacking corps will be a big factor for Foxboro, with Waryas providing the goals that can get the Warriors one step further and into the Final Four. The Wesleyan commit was one of the top scorers last season with 52 goals and dished out 32 assists. Her vision and creativity around the cage make her a difficult cover and provides space for her teammates as well. The Warriors will be among the favorites in Div. 3 again this season and Waryas will be counted on to provide some firepower to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Oliver Ames won 11 games last season and reached the state tournament and an attack that eclipsed the 200-goal mark was one of the reasons the Tigers had so much success. Wilson had a breakout junior campaign, becoming one of the top scorers in the league. She tallied 52 goals, including some clutch finishes in close games that helped the Tigers secure a top 32 spot in Div. 2. With her speed to take on defenders and ability to spot a pass out of traffic, Wilson not only created opportunities for herself but also for all of her teammates. OA will want to return to the playoffs this year and Wilson’s leadership in the attack will be critical for the Tigers to achieve that goal.
Below are the official 2022 Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars, selected by the coaches in the league.
Hockomock League MVP
Kate O’Rourke, Franklin
Hockomock League All Stars
Addison Papagolos, Attleboro
Emily McCabe, Canton
Devan Spinale, Canton
Meghan Burke, Foxboro
Paige Curran, Foxboro
Mya Waryas, Foxboro
Kenzie Baker, Franklin
Kaitlyn Carney, Franklin
Anna Grasso, Franklin
Jackie O’Neil, Franklin
Kate O’Rourke, Franklin
Katie Peterson, Franklin
Stella Regan, Franklin
Lily Brown, King Philip
Julia Marsden, King Philip
McKenzie McDevitt, King Philip
Ava Adams, Mansfield
Caitlyn Bangert, Milford
Aislinn Bennett, Milford
Summer Doherty, North Attleboro
Taylor McMath, North Attleboro
Georgia Costello, Oliver Ames
Catie Wilson, Oliver Ames
Honorable Mentions
Isabella Cavallini, Attleboro
Allie McCabe, Canton
Val Beigel, Foxboro
Jamie Tanner, Franklin
Haley Izydorczak, King Philip
Kayla Doherty, Mansfield
Emily Croteau, Milford
Ava McKeon, North Attleboro
Hailey Bourne, Oliver Ames
Bailey Garte, Sharon
Cali Melo, Taunton
Below are the official 2022 Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league. Below are the official Hockomock League Girls Lacrosse All Stars and honorable mentions, selected by the coaches in the league.
