The Thomas Jefferson Girls Lacrosse Team excels in first game under new coach, Erin Holben.
by Matthew Mankoff
photo by Kevin C. Fleming
The Thomas Jefferson High School Girls Lacrosse team entered the season with high hopes due to the return of a veteran group of players, and a new head coach.
The Spartans, who only managed four wins last season, are returning a varsity squad that features only two freshmen and two sophomores. The abundance of upperclassmen has the team’s players excited for the upcoming season. “We have a lot of upperclassmen on the team, and many of the players have been involved in lacrosse for over five years. This experience will definitely contribute to our success,” said Heather Brenneman, a junior goaltender for the Spartans.
The excitement surrounding the TJ Girls’ Lacrosse team also has to do with the acquisition of new Head Coach and TJ Graduate Erin Holben, who has inspired her players to strive for success, as well as work hard to achieve their goals. “Coach Holben is awesome. What is really great about her is that instead of just simply telling us to do something, she does it with us. If we run a mile, she runs a mile,” said Brenneman.
The combination of veteran leadership and a news style of coaching lead the Spartans to an 8-6 win against Overland High School. The Spartans were lead by Taylor Melvin who had 3 goals. The opening day effort pleased the entire Spartan team, and gives TJ momentum that it has not had in recent years.
The Spartans looked to continue their success Friday against Cherokee Trail. The TJ squad looked good early against the Cougars on their home turf, but Cherokee Trail ended up pulling away 14-10 late in the game. "Of course we wanted to win, but Cherokee Trail is a good team and it was exciting to compete with them the whole game. We are all excited about the potential that our team has this year," said Brenneman. The Spartan team will be tested again Tuesday (March 11) as they take on Fountain Valley at Fountain Valley at 4:15pm.
