Abigael Fesehaie also contributed to this article
As the 2024-2025 season comes to an end, the Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse team reflects on a year filled with hardships that were utilized as learning opportunities to grow as a team. On May 20th, captains Mackenzie Jenkins, Jeslyn San, and Abigail Lee, along with senior Parneet Kaur, who all led with integrity and transparency, were commemorated during their senior night against Somerville.
Prior to the game, the four seniors were called to the middle of the field one by one, where they were given recognition for all of their hard work and impressive accomplishments, along with friends and family there to support them and their future plans after high school. From the personalized posters showcasing their performances in lacrosse throughout the years and their personal lives, nostalgia hit the seniors hard. However, the ecstatic crowd lifted the mood despite the poor weather.
As the first quarter kicked off, Somerville started strong, leading to a score of 3-0 in just a few minutes. Regardless of frustration, the team was able to remain calm and play diligently and cooperatively, leading to greatly executed plays and attempted goals. However, Somerville was able to power through, closing the quarter 5-0.
After a moment of recollection, Malden entered the second quarter with a new approach and shifted towards a heavier offense. Jenkins then scored Malden’s first goal of the game, and the stadium lit up with cheers and words of encouragement. Closely after, a tussle surrounding Somerville’s goal occurred with what seemed like a million sticks attempting to scoop the ball. In the end, junior Sarah Fontaim was able to swiftly scoop the ball and rush it down the field.
The remainder of the quarter was a perfect representation of the team’s wit and unity. Through impressive plays and performances, especially from sophomore Nyla Pierre and San, who were able to bring the score to 6-2, their work ethic centered around teamwork was truly showcased.
“We definitely have a lot to improve with, but I’d say that being there for each other and connected outside of the sport is a top skill of ours that helps us in so many ways,” stated junior Sarah Fontaim.
Despite Malden’s aggressive and impressive defense, Somerville was able to close the 2nd quarter out 9-2.
The third and fourth quarters were no different; Malden erupted from halftime, determined to score goals and even out the score. Jenkins was able to strategically play against Somerville’s impressive defense, and she wasn’t alone. Junior Abigaile Lee was a major assist with many rushes and passes to Jenkins, where she was able to score twice, bringing the score to 11-4. The rest of the quarter began to slow down, but instead of panicking, Malden took that as a chance to recollect as a team and reassure each other while also discussing areas to focus on.
The final quarter and final game for the seniors approached, and it was an intensely impressive performance from both teams, who were fighting tooth and nail to close out their season on a positive note. Senior Kaur and Lee demonstrated strong leadership throughout the quarter. After a tense tussle for the ball near Somerville’s defense, Lee was able to scoop the ball with strength. With leadership and camaraderie, Pierre and San were able to push through for the last four minutes of the game, which led to the final score of 15-7.
Despite all the excess fouls, injuries, and other setbacks that Malden faced throughout both the game and their season, their momentum, characterized by their wit and perseverance, was able to make the best of their last match together and appreciate the memories and growth they made throughout the season.
With the season coming to a close and the beloved seniors departing, there’s no doubt that the team has work to be done. The team’s optimistic values will surely lead them to success moving forward.
