Girls lacrosse at Brunswick High School (BHS) is more than just a sport, but a community full of support, and dedication.

The 2026 season is full of hard work that came from all of the players. People often focus too much on the scoreboards, and not enough on the commitment and hard work that goes into a sport. Every time the girls step on the field they are ready to give it their all; supporting each other, and putting it all on the line. It can be draining in most cases, but for lacrosse it’s all worth it. 

For many of the newer players this season, joining the lacrosse team was both exciting yet intimidating. Most of these players entered the season with very little experience, but quickly gained support from older teammates, and the coaches. Through practices, drills, and games, new players were able to improve their skills while becoming more confident on the field.

Grace Johansen, a freshman, said the welcoming environment helped make her experience on junior varsity (JV) enjoyable.

“My experience for JV was good and everyone was welcoming and helpful,” Johansen said.

She explained that the more experienced players helped out newer teammates in learning drills, positioning, and teamwork during practices.

Lacrosse practices helped the newer girls adjust to the fast pace of lacrosse. Players spent time doing stretches, warmups, stick work, defensive drills, and offensive plays. JV players also occasionally watched varsity drills, learning more about communication and different strategies.

One of the biggest strengths of the Brunswick girls lacrosse team this season was its chemistry.

Players encouraged one another, providing constructive criticism during practices, and games, helping teammates stay motivated. The supportive environment helped all of the players to grow closer throughout the season.

CallieKendall Humphries, a Brunswick sophomore, believes the team’s determination has helped them push through challenges all season long.

“I think that our team strengths are our determination, and how we don’t give up even if we lose, or don’t have the outcome that we wanted,” Humphries said.

Playing at the varsity level comes with higher expectations and stronger competition. These players are facing opponents who have years of experience in lacrosse, forcing the team to work harder during practices and games. Despite the pressure, varsity athletes continue pushing themselves to improve throughout the season.

Marilee Smith, a senior, shared one of the biggest challenges after four years on the team, she has developed into a role model who encourages younger players to be confident.

“My biggest challenge was definitely getting out of my comfort zone and actually getting into the action,” Smith said.

Practices for the team are often filled with energy, communication, and hard work. The players focus on conditioning, drills, defensive formations, and scrimmages. Although practices can be physically demanding, the girls still find ways to laugh, and enjoy time together.

According to players, balancing discipline, and fun is an important part of the team’s environment. Anabelle Whiting, a freshman shares about that balance.

“During practices, we always have our silly moments where we laugh and have a good time, but we are also able to focus and put in the work in order to improve,” Whiting said.

As the lacrosse season comes to an end, many players start to say goodbye to teammates who have become close friends over the years. The seniors have played an important role in shaping the team, and supporting the younger players throughout the season.

For seniors like Marilee Smith, the relationships built through lacrosse have been very important.

“I’ll definitely miss the community, and the connections I’ve made along the way,” Smith said.

After spending four years with the program, Smith hopes to continue playing lacrosse in college.

While competition is an important part of lacrosse, many players say their favorite memories happen off the field.

Long bus rides, and team bonding moments helped strengthen friendships throughout the season.

Humphries shared that one of her favorite memories was playing alongside her older sister during her senior season.

“My favorite memory has been getting to play a season on the same team as my older sister, Lennan, since she’s a senior,” Humphries said.

Most players describe the team environment as positive, and encouraging. Whether athletes are new to the sport, or have years of experience, it is important that teammates work together to help each other improve both individually, and as a group.

“The environment is wonderful. Everyone is empathetic, encouraging, and helpful,” Whiting said.

She explained that support from teammates and coaches helped ground her before games, and encouraged her to continue improving.

Although the season included both challenges, and successes, the players continued to support one another through every practice, and game.

The team’s determination, and strong relationships helped create a season filled with growth, and memories.