Spalding Girl’s Lacrosse Starts Strong

The Archbishop Spalding girls’ lacrosse team has opened the 2026 season with an undefeated record, highlighted by an impressive 8-3 win against rival Saint Mary’s. The Cavaliers have shown strong teamwork and determination early this year, setting high expectations for the rest of the spring season. Senior captains Ella Jane Ostrowski, Ellie Roberts, and Hadley Zurvalec, along with Junior captain Samantha Collins, have played a major role in leading the team both on and off the field. Just last week, Samantha Collins was named MIAA Athlete of the Week for her leadership and performance. This just shows the impact she has had on the team this season. According to the captains, the team’s success comes not only from skill but also from the strong bond between players. Practices every day after school, and long bus rides to away games have helped strengthen the team’s chemistry. Players say these shared experiences bring them closer and help them build trust with one another. This allows teammates to push each other harder to improve every day. Motivation for this season also comes from last year’s difficult ending. In 2025, the Cavaliers fell short, losing 7-5 to Maryvale Preparatory School. “Losing the championship last year definitely stuck with the team; it made everyone more motivated to come back stronger this season,”  says captain Samantha Collins. Throughout the off-season, the team kept that moment in mind, using it as fuel during workouts, practices, and preseason training. While the team’s undefeated start and rivalry win over Saint Mary’s has created excitement around the program, players and coaches know there’s still a long season ahead. With strong leadership from captains Roberts, Collins, Ostrowski, and Zurvalec, the Cavaliers hope to keep building on the momentum and finish this season strong.