It’s only March, but women’s lacrosse is already looking forward to another solid season. So far the Lady Capitals are 7-3 overall and 4-1 in the Cap 7 Conference with wins against Millbrook, Sanderson, Wakefield, Leesville, Enloe, Chapel Hill and Rolesville, and losses to Cardinal Gibbons, Apex and Springfield (a team from Pennsylvania).

  The team is led by senior captains Anneka Pace and Leaha Renee Burgess, who hope to build on previous success after making it to the semi-finals of the state championship last year. So far, five of the team’s wins have been by 10 goals or more including Wakefield, an old rival from the intense game that was interrupted by lightning two years ago.

  One challenge for this year’s varsity lacrosse team is the loss of last year’s seniors.

   “Our underclassmen have really had to step up and fill the shoes of the seniors last year. At the beginning of the season it was rough, but we’ve really come together and found a good groove,” Burgess said.

  The team’s five seniors have stepped up to fulfill leadership positions. Also, young players to watch out for include juniors Margaret Anne Warner and EJ Fuller, both midfields.

  This year’s coaching staff includes head coach Jen Yoder as well as assistant coaches Mindy Hope, Kelly Womack and Beth Harvey.

   The staff has been especially focused on conditioning in preparation for the season. Varsity practices every weekday on the lower field at Fletcher Park from 3:30 to 5:15 p.m.

   The coaches’ emphasis on conditioning and stretching has increased with recent muscle pulls and strains. Now, a typical varsity practice starts with jogging a lap and stretching followed by a passing drill, skill drill, and scrimmage or working on specific plays. Assistant coach Beth Harvey also begins each JV practice with conditioning.

  “I think the rest of the season is going to be freakin’ amazing because we’re getting stronger and building our stamina,” senior Noah Cummins said.

  The JV team, unlike varsity, does not have many experienced players nor has it been as dominant. Still, the athletes are improving rapidly.

  “We’re very inexperienced, but I’m impressed by how well we’ve done with little experience,” assistant coach Mindy Hope said.

  The Lady Caps play at home on Thursday, April 12 at 6:30 against Panther Creek. Tickets are $5 at the gate.