The air at Stafford High is thick with anticipation for the spring sports season, but for both the Stafford Lacrosse programs, that excitement is mixed with an unexpected, major challenge with the loss of their head coaches.  

Selene Moreno- Lapierre, a player on the girls team, expressed her sadness over the loss. “I’m so sad, I miss her (Coach Kelly) so much already. She was the best coach I’ve had.” Selene said, her voice tinged with emotion. 

For the players she was more than just a leader, she was a mentor who inspired confidence

and fostered a sense of unity among the players. The mix of skill, inspiration, and encouragement helped to bring these athletes together into a tight-knit community.

Teammate Mia Cordy echoed these sentiments. Crediting the coach for her personal growth. “She helped me improve so much as a player and brought everyone together. She’s the reason many of us play lacrosse.” Cordy said 

The boys team is also grappling with the loss of their head coach. The former coach (Greg Goudy) was known for his emphasis on defense and his ability to teach players the importance of strategy and effort. He taught the athletes to have a discipline mentality who tried to prioritize teamwork versus individual triumph.

Miller Beavers, a sophomore who has played under the coach since he first picked up a lacrosse stick, described his disappointment. “He was my coach since I first started, and to hear he’s leaving after just one year, it sucked.” Miller admitted. 

No matter the length of time the coach was a part of the Stafford Boys Lacrosse program, he still managed to touch these athletes. The former coach was known for his emphasis on defense and his ability to teach players the importance of strategy and effort. 

“It was never just about running around; he wanted us to play smart and work hard.” a sophomore Hudsin Nupdal added, reflecting on the lessons he learned. 

With only an offensive coach remaining for the boys, concerns about defensive performance have surfaced. Meanwhile, the girls are adjusting to new leadership and hoping to maintain the sense of unity their coach fostered.

Despite these challenges, team members are determined to move forward. Many say they will draw in the skills and values their coaches instilled: teamwork, resilience, and smart play, as they face the season ahead. “We’ll have to support each other more than ever.” sophomore Mia Cordy said. 

As the season begins, the Stafford Lacrosse teams are united in their determination to overcome adversity. With memories of their coaches guiding them, they look forward to proving their strength and spirit on the field.