by Eric Mojica

The 2026 season delivered growth, grit, and unforgettable moments for Lowell Girls Lacrosse. With record‑breaking participation and strong performances across all teams, the program closed the year on a high note at the MYL Jamboree, where our athletes showcased teamwork, skill, and true Lowell spirit.

A special and heartfelt thank‑you goes to O’Hearn Insurance for sponsoring our weekly InsideLowell columns and helping shine a light on the hard work and dedication of our female athletes.

Here’s how each team finished an outstanding season:

Grade 1/2 Jamboree Recap & Coaches’ End of Season Comments

The Lowell Girls 1/2 team played three games at the Jamboree against Wilmington, Swampscott, and Sharon, finishing 1–2 on the day. All three matchups were highly competitive and featured outstanding goaltending, extraordinary teamwork, and nonstop effort from start to finish. The biggest takeaway was how hard the girls competed, how they never gave up, and—most importantly—how much fun they had.

Every player contributed throughout the day, whether it was battling for ground balls, winning draws, assisting on goals, scoring, or playing tough defense.

Leading the way offensively was Evelyn McManus with 3 goals, followed by Riley Brady and Payton O’Hearn with 2 each. Emma Tessier, Charlotte Patterson, Maggie Reagan, and Audrey Whittemore each added 1 goal as well.

The team also totaled 10 assists on the day, along with countless ground balls won across the field.

Lowell’s goalies for the day were Casey McCabe, Riley Gudewich, Rowan Keefe, Sydney Smith, Julia Brown, and Raquel Fernandes. Every goalie played tremendously, combining for an impressive number of saves throughout the day.

It was a true team effort from beginning to end, highlighted by hustle, heart, teamwork, and a whole lot of memories.

Coaches: Mike Gudewich (3rd season), Pat McCabe (2nd), Tim Patterson (2nd), Courtney Smith (1st), Shane Whittemore (1st), Sue Hunt (1st): The coaching staff could not be prouder of the tremendous growth and effort shown by the 1/2 team this season.

From the very first indoor practices—when many of the girls were just learning how to hold a stick, cradle, and pass—to the final games at the Jamboree, their development was remarkable. The girls worked hard all year and finished the regular season with 85 goals, 46 assists, 67 draw controls, and an incredible 308 ground balls, a testament to how quickly they learned and how eager they were to improve.

Coaches saw noticeable progress every week across all skill levels, with players gaining confidence, applying practice drills in games, and embracing new roles on both offense and defense. Their enthusiasm made every practice and game a joy, and watching their skills, teamwork, and understanding of the game grow was truly rewarding.

This was a fun, energetic group whose confidence blossomed throughout the season, and the staff is excited to watch them continue developing their abilities, leadership, and love for lacrosse in the years ahead. It was an absolute pleasure coaching this talented group, and the future of Lowell Girls Lacrosse is incredibly bright with these athletes leading the way.

Grade 3/4 Jamboree Recap & Coaches’ End of Season Comments:

The 3/4 group closed out their season with a strong showing at the MYL Jamboree, finishing 2–1 on the day. After a tough 10–6 loss to Wilmington, the team bounced back with impressive wins over Tewksbury (11–7) and Duxbury (11–7). It was a fun, competitive, and well‑earned finish to a very successful season, highlighted by strong midfield play, tight defense, excellent goalie performances, and outstanding teamwork across all three games.

Lowell’s offense was explosive and balanced, led by Maggie Branco, who delivered a massive 9‑goal, 6‑assist performance across the day. Right behind her was Eva Mojica, who totaled 7 goals and 3 assists, consistently breaking through defenses and generating scoring chances. Gisele Smith added 2 goals and 4 assists, making a major impact as both a scorer and facilitator, while Emmagrace Glavine contributed 3 goals and 3 assists, showcasing her playmaking ability in transition and settled offense.

Additional contributions came from Michaela Marshall (1 goal, 3 assists), Delaney Donovan (1 goal, 2 assists), and Madison O’Hearn (1 goal, 2 assists), each providing key moments that kept Lowell’s offense moving. Avery Gudewich added 2 goals, while Isabella Cardaci chipped in 1 goal and 1 assist. Rounding out the scoring were Etta Brunini, Emma Smulligan, and Alice Regan, with Brunini and Smulligan each netting 1 goal, and Regan adding 1 assist. Kinsley Witts also contributed 1 assist and played strong defensively.

Lowell’s ride was one of the biggest strengths of the day, with attack players working relentlessly to pressure clears and force turnovers. Strong passing, smart movement without the ball, and consistent hustle defined the group’s offensive and defensive identity.

In net, Lucy Arinello played two outstanding games, making numerous saves—including several clutch stops against Tewksbury that helped Lowell control momentum. Emma Smulligan stepped into goal for the Duxbury matchup and delivered a great performance of her own, turning away multiple shots from a strong attacking group.

It was a complete team effort from start to finish, and a fantastic way to close out the season. The 3/4 group showed grit, skill, and togetherness all day long—an exciting preview of what’s ahead for this talented group of girls.

Coaches: Jill Feeney (2^nd season), Eric Mojica (3^rd), Jimmy Cardaci (3^rd), Mike Gudewich (3^rd), Heather Brunini (3^rd), Chris Benson (3^rd): The 3/4 program had an extraordinary year, finishing the season with a combined 22–2 record across all teams—3/4 White at 8–0, 3/4 Red at 7–1, and 3/4 Select at 5–0, followed by a strong 2–1 showing at the MYL Jamboree.

For a group of 27 athletes, the growth, teamwork, and skill development on display were exceptional. From the first indoor practices in February through the final whistle at Fort Devens, the girls worked hard, embraced challenges, and consistently rose to the moment. The coaching staff introduced new concepts throughout the season, and the players not only absorbed them quickly but executed them confidently in games, which was evident in the group’s overall success.

This is a talented, driven, and coachable group that improved every week, delivered standout individual and team performances, and made every practice and game a pleasure. The future is incredibly bright for these athletes, and the coaches are excited to see what this special group accomplishes next.

Grade 5/6 Jamboree Recap & Coaches’ End of Season Comments:

The 5/6 Red team battled through hot temperatures at the MYL Jamboree on 6/14, finishing the day with one tie and two losses. Despite the results, the group played with grit, resilience, and strong fundamentals from start to finish.

Offensively, draw control, crisp passing, and decisive drives to the net fueled the team’s momentum. The group totaled 19 goals, with scoring spread across multiple athletes: Ellie Branco (7), Maeve McKiernan (5), Vivian Shanley (4), Brooke Sorbi (1), Nylah Nwaise (1), and Addison Dolan (1). The midfield and attack units supported every push, with Sam Heslin, Grace Ninteau, and Nora Finn running the field, securing ground balls, and keeping the offense moving. Audrey Hunt and Quinn Maguire kept opposing defenses shifting, creating open lanes and scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Maya Underwood and Ellie Jaracz applied consistent pressure, forcing turnovers and disrupting plays. Bella Bedard, Renee Wagner, and Bridget Quirbach stayed tight on their marks, limiting passing options and scoring chances. In goal, J’Lynn Wallace and Keira Pollard combined for an impressive 29 saves, anchoring the defense throughout the day and keeping Lowell competitive in every matchup.

Coaches: Kaitie Shanley (5^th season), Meghan Dolan (5^th): We are incredibly proud of the 5/6 team this season. From snowy indoor practices to the final Jamboree whistle in the hot sun, this group showed growth and grit every single week.

The season wasn’t just about the scoreboard — it was about learning to compete with confidence, support one another, and play the game by focusing on fundamentals. Across the board, the girls improved in stick skills, field awareness, cutting, applying pressure, and reacting quickly in game situations. They showed resilience through tough competition and celebrated every victory together.

The coaches couldn’t be prouder and can’t wait to watch this group continue to grow.

Grade 7/8 Jamboree Recap & Coaches’ End of Season Comments:

The season concluded with an exciting day at the MYL Jamboree, where Lowell’s 7/8 team showcased meaningful improvement, competitive spirit, and strong teamwork.

The opening game against Parkway allowed the group to settle in and establish rhythm. Skylar Nwaise, Maeve Marshall, and Samira Wagner each found the back of the net, while the midfield trio of Samira Wagner, Mia Conners, and Mairin Monaghan controlled the draw to give Lowell valuable possessions and early momentum.

Lowell followed with a hard‑fought 3–2 victory over Easton. Cate Richardson, Skylar Nwaise, and Reese McKiernan each scored to lead the offense, while Abby Smulligan, Maggie Richardson, Keira Peters, and Maggie Wilson were relentless on ground balls, creating extra opportunities and extending possessions. Niamh Murphy, Fiona Zurkus, and Makenna Norman anchored the defense with strong positioning and pressure.

The team closed the day against Old Rochester, with Skylar Nwaise and Nora Kelley each contributing a goal. Sadie Ronan delivered a standout performance highlighted by several clutch catches and smooth passes that helped stabilize Lowell’s transition game.

Coaches: Bethany Sykes Peters (7^th season), Christin Monaghan (6^th), Jerry Murphy (6^th), Kaleigh Dunham (1^st): The 7/8 team capped off another successful season marked by growth, teamwork, and a strong commitment to learning. This year, the program welcomed several players who were brand‑new to lacrosse, and their enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and steady improvement made them quick contributors on the field. Together, the team focused on strengthening fundamental skills, improving communication, and building a deeper understanding of advanced offensive and defensive concepts.

A major part of that development came from Coach Kaleigh Dunham, who brought fresh ideas, new drills, and a wealth of knowledge to the group. The players embraced her coaching style immediately and benefited from her experience. Lowell Girls Lacrosse is proud to have former players returning to give back and inspire the next generation of athletes.

The team continued its tradition of presenting the weekly Golden Stick Award, recognizing players who consistently demonstrated grit, teamwork, leadership, and outstanding sportsmanship both on and off the field.

Congratulations to the program’s graduating eighth graders: Sadie Ronan, Skylar Nwaise, Makenna Norman, Samira Wagner, Reese McKiernan, and Mia Conners. LGL is proud of their commitment, participation, and growth over the years.

From first‑time players learning the fundamentals to experienced athletes leading by example, the Lowell 7/8 team demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the year. Their commitment and team‑first mentality made for a truly rewarding season.

Valley United Select Season Snapshot

The Valley United 5/6 and 7/8 Select teams had an exceptional season, with both squads demonstrating strong effort, growth, and determination from start to finish.

The 5/6 team earned a spot in the Champions Bracket and battled through a tightly contested matchup against Chelmsford, ultimately falling by just two goals in a game that highlighted their resilience and high‑level play.

The 7/8 team advanced to the Best of the Rest Bracket, where they faced Beverly in a thrilling matchup that went into overtime before coming up just short.

Across both teams, Valley United showcased serious talent and grit. Players rose to every challenge, maintained a high level of competition, and delivered exciting, fast‑paced lacrosse all season long. Close scores, strong execution, and standout individual performances proved that Valley United consistently brought energy, toughness, and competitiveness to every game.

5/6 Players: Ellie Branco, Addison Dolan, Ellie Jaracz, Maeve McKiernan, Vivian Shanley, Brooke Sorbi, Maya Underwood, J’Lynn Wallace

5/6 Coaches: Kaitie Shanley, Bella Marsden

7/8 Players: Nora Graham, Nora Kelly, Erin McGovern, Reese McKiernan, Skylar Nwaise, Cate Richardson, Maggie Richardson, Maggie Wilson

7/8 Coaches: Isabella Beaton, Seth Cargiuolo

Closing Remarks from Lowell Girls Lacrosse Program President, Kaitie Shanley

As President of Lowell Girls Lacrosse, I am incredibly proud to reflect on our 2026 season—a year defined by remarkable growth, resilience, and community spirit.

This season, we reached an exciting milestone with 104 players, our highest participation in years and a clear sign of the momentum and enthusiasm surrounding girls lacrosse in Lowell. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our coaches, who guided, supported, and inspired our athletes through every challenge and success.

I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to our fundraising committee and board members for their tireless work behind the scenes—their commitment and collaboration make everything we do possible. Most importantly, we are fortunate to have such a passionate and supportive community of families who uplift our program and cheer on our athletes every step of the way.

With this incredible foundation and the energy our players brought all season long, I am already looking forward to what LGL will accomplish together in 2027.