The five-time state champion Jesuit women’s lacrosse team is preparing for another title run this spring, aiming to secure a sixth championship.
Jesuit heads into the playoffs next week with an impressive 14-1 record and the Number 1 state ranking— a step up from previous years. Their only loss came in a narrow one-point game against Grant, a result that still leaves them first in both the Metro League and the state rankings, rather than their usual second-place standing.
The team faced an early challenge this season when head coach Lauren Lakey announced she would be out on maternity leave.
“This season was very important for us seniors to step up and take on a bigger role for the team. Quinny and I were also captains last year and towards the end of the season we really found ourselves stepping into a coaching and leadership role like we have been this season,” said senior captain and Bucknell commit Gigi Abernethy. “We have had strong leaders in the years prior and we learned from them on how to step into that coaching role when needed.”
The ability to step up and persevere through adversity has been on display all season, including an incredible comeback against Seattle Prep, where Jesuit came back and won from a 1-8 deficit on Cronin Field. The Crusaders also proved their strength beyond Oregon, traveling to Seattle and defeating both opponents by four goals each.
They are ready to bring fierce play into the playoffs and are hoping to see Lake Oswego, a matchup that has gone back and forth over the years. Last year, the Crusaders defeated Lake Oswego in the state championship at Pioneer Stadium and are determined to repeat that success.
“During my four years, we’ve always worn black during playoffs, but this year, since we’re the home team, we’ll be wearing white,” said senior captain and Penn State commit Quinny Handley.
While the team has a long-standing superstition about wearing black, they are confident they can compete at the highest level no matter the jersey color.
Adding to the excitement this year, Jesuit will face the fourth or fifth seed in the semifinals instead of the third, introducing a new twist to their playoff path.
“I think our strength is the bond we have off the field. Through all of the pre game rituals and team dinners we really get to know each teammate so well. Also the hard work and dedication we put in during practice helps us succeed on the field,” said senior Georgia Daskalos.
