WEST CALDWELL- JCHS Girls Lacrosse has started the season on a roll, tallying wins in each of their first three games. In their first contest, a high scoring 21-17 win versus Madison, the offense showcased just how potent they could be. Senior Kate Quinn, who is committed to play Division One lacrosse at Drexel University, led the team with five goals, while Senior Julia Duren-Lubanski totaled a team high eight points. The next two games were won by a combined four points, with the team showing an increasing sense of comradery and chemistry. Expectations are set high for this group of ladies, with winning states being the main goal of the season.
Starting from the top, the team is led by seasoned head coach Angela Giampino-Vasi, a former Montclair State lacrosse player, and assistant coaches Diana Reyes, Nicole Rubino, and Rachel McNamara. The latter two played under Giampino during their respective JCHS careers, where they enjoyed many successful seasons on Bonnell Field. When asked to comment about her expectations for the season, Giampino stated, “We have a really strong squad this year. We moved up in our conference, so we are going to face some tough competition. I am confident that this team will be successful. I am looking forward to our first game today against Madison and seeing our success throughout the rest of the season.” As stated before, the Chiefs won their first three contests of the season, including their matchup versus Madison. Giampino’s expectations have thus far been met, and there is no indication that the team will fall victim to tougher opponents as the season progresses.
Similar to their head coach, members of the team all have similar hopes for the season. Although there are no official captains representing the team, all of the seniors have taken a leadership role, and have made it their mission to ensure that every member of the team is fully on board with the commitment that is necessary to win a state championship. Senior Julia Duren-Lubanski touched on some of the thoughts running through each player’s mind, stating, “Last season we were ranked 3rd in our group, in contention for the state championships, and with one of our highest winning streaks in program history so we have a lot riding on this year. Our schedule is much more competitive, but it will prepare us for the long road to states.” With such a successful season just one year in the rearview mirror, the team can still taste what they achieved in 2021, but are determined to have an even better season.
With such a tough schedule, there are countless games slated that look to be much watches. Tough matchups versus Ramsey and Millburn late in the season look to be a test for the Chiefs, while rivalry contests against Cedar Grove and West Essex are always a treat to attend. It’s officially States or bust for the 2022 JCHS Girls Lacrosse Team!
