![With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSC_0154-1200x800.jpg)
![Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/feature-image-1200x823.png)
![Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_5383-1200x897.jpg)
![As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DSC_0057-1200x662.jpg)
Girls Lacrosse Season Opener Results Leave Room for Improvement
On March 16, the Phoenix varsity girls lacrosse team opened their season against the John Handley Judges. The game resulted in a Phoenix loss of 13-0.
Freshman Tatiana Bernard makes a breakaway in an attempt to score a goal. As a brand new athlete to the sport, Bernard has set many goals for this season. “I hope to win some games in the future, or at least improve [the amount of] points we score,” Bernard said.
March 31, 2023
After a long process of tryouts, relentless practices, and scrimmages, the Phoenix varsity girls lacrosse team was ready to gear up for their first official game of the season. Traveling from Winchester for the match up, they faced the John Handley Judges on March 16.
Following warm ups, the referee’s inspection of the equipment, and a coin toss, the game began. The Phoenix started off the game with possession of the ball. Soon after, the Judges stole the ball from the Phoenix and scored.
Throughout the first half, the Phoenix were hesitant to communicate with one another on the field. Aiding the Judges lead of 8-0 at the half. Freshman Tatiana Bernard was one of the starters for the game, and felt there was something missing. “I think we need to work on communication with our teammates, [making sure we know] who has what,” Bernard said.
Luckily, the Phoenix were able to step up their defense and communication after halftime. The girls came back on the field ready to defend their opponent, and they were able to turnover the ball and have possession of the ball for longer periods of time.
The Phoenix fought against a strong defense, making it difficult for the Judges to score. However, despite this effort, the game ended with a Phoenix loss of 13-0. With a long season ahead of them, the Phoenix have time to develop as a team and potential to win against their future rivals. “I feel like we are all beat down that we lost,” Bernard said. “But we know we are going to improve, and get better throughout practices and the games we play. So we are looking forward to being able to get a win.”
Despite the loss, players reflected on the game optimistically “Even though we lost I saw a lot of improvement from the scrimmage a couple days ago.” sophomore Jackie Cheek said. A lot of players shared the same feelings “ The important thing was that we worked hard even though we lost.” sophomore Lexi Anspach siad. “ Our strength was working together as a team during the game and it’s harder because we have not many veteran players.”
The next Phoenix girls lacrosse home game will be on April 18 against Jefferson Forest High School.
![With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/DSC_0154-600x400.jpg)
![As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DSC_0057-600x331.jpg)