The girls lacrosse program has struggled to find its footing since playing its first game just three years ago. Still, after tying for last place in the Southwestern Conference last year, the team has “passion and drive” in the eyes of senior Amulya Girada.
“Having only been a school team for a few years now, we are new to the game,” Girada said. “It is crucial for us to maintain a positive attitude and do everything in our control to prepare.”
When Girada was asked about her team’s best players, she was quick to name about half the roster in Shelby Lee, Kelise Garrett, Sophia Jacoby, Alayna Garman, Norah O’Connor, Andrah Salyer and Sophie Byron.
“These assets, put together, can win us a game,” Girada said.
Those assets’ first chance to win came March 19 at O’Fallon – which would be a challenge. Over the past two seasons, Edwardsville is 0-3 against the Panthers, losing by a combined score of 59-5.
“O’Fallon’s teams have been set up for 20-plus years now, and their program is set up for DI commits,” Girada said.
So, the season would begin on enemy turf against a team that’s lost one conference game since 2023.
“The game … was definitely tough,” senior Delaney Cochran said. “It was our first one and against the best team in the league. I can for sure see the improvement from last year against them. Even the people on their team were telling us that.”
The Tigers fell to the Panthers 13-0, which would usually be seen as a rout. Given Edwardsville’s past struggles against O’Fallon, though, it’s a step in the right direction.
“I know it looks crazy, but it’s a lot better than last year,” Cochran said.
The loss provided some opportunities for growth, highlighting areas the Tigers need to clean up going into their next game, the March 21 home opener against the Belleville West Maroons.
“We need to communicate better and pass the ball up the field,” Cochran said. “We also really need to work on not getting too frustrated when there’s a bad call or a bad play. [We need to] regroup and focus on the next draw.”
Given their 0-1 start, Edwardsville, a program with an all-time record of 6-30, has a lot to prove going into this year. For Carruthers, that means team-wide progression.
“A successful season for us would probably mean a few key wins, improved teamwork and communication,” Carruthers said. “I think it would be great for our team to improve … on the field while incorporating new plays … also focusing on skill developments at practices, like shooting and defense is needed.”