As the spring sports season continues, the Atoms girls varsity lacrosse team looks to stay sharp and improve as they head into district play.
The team has been through many ups and downs so far to start the season.
The team started off the season with a shoutout, 12-0 win against Park View but the Atoms have hit a rough patch of games since then.
Since then, the team lost to Trinity Christian, South Lakes, and lost an unfortunate and close game to Alexandria City by a score of 9-12.
We’ve had a few rough games after a few key players got injured, but we have learned a lot from them and we have been getting better after every practice,” junior Correne Bellem said.
Injuries are one of the most devastating things that can happen to a team throughout the season.
With key players being injured, it prevents the team from reaching their full potential and winning the games that they know they can win when healthy.
Despite the unfortunate injuries, the team looks to continue to improve, as they have an important stretch of games coming up.
“We are working hard in practice on not only stick skills and plays, but also working together as a team and communicating on the field,” Bellem said.
Working hard on stick skills and other important things is what can help get the Atoms ready for their upcoming stretch of district play.
The team opens up district play with a stretch of three home games.
The Atoms play Lewis on April 11, Hayfield on April 13, and Falls Church on April 19.
It is very important that the Atoms are prepared for this upcoming stretch of games, as it is crucial to get off to a hot start in district play.
“To prepare for districts we’re working on fixing our defense and placement on attack,” senior Audrey Barnes said.”
Defense is very important for the Atoms, as a strong defense can really help a team closeout crucial games in district play.
Placement on attack is also extremely important for the Atoms, as good placement while attacking can give the team more goal scoring opportunities.
As the team is still in the first half of the season, many players have goals set for themselves to improve individually and as a team.
“My goal is just to get better continuously through the season and improve my own stick work,” Barnes said.
Continuous improvement of players can propel the team for a district championship push by the end of the season.
Despite what the team has been through to start the season, it is important for the team to stay focused as they aim for a championship.
“My goal for the team this season is to grow our skills together and get into the district championship,” Bellem said.