There was a lot on the line. As the minutes ticked by, the South Windsor High School girls lacrosse team anticipated the conclusion of the game.
In that riveting game on May 22nd 2024, South Windsor defeated the Tolland Eagles to claim the title of CCC East Champions.
This was a remarkable win for the Bobcats. But, the start to the season was rocky, as the team was adjusting to an entirely new coaching staff. However, it was evident from the team’s performance that they were committed.
The Bobcat’s morale was high as last year’s season approached. The team was ready to dominate the field once again.
Unfortunately, the season did not unfold as planned. The South Windsor girls lacrosse team ended with a record of 3-12; the team lost any hope of qualifying for the state tournament.
It was devastating for the Bobcats. Everyone was equally frustrated by the abrupt end to the season.
Then, on June 20th, just a few days after the conclusion of the 2025 season, Head Coach David LaPorte announced his departure, leaving behind a team of 30 girls wondering what that would mean for them.
“I am a senior on the team, and this will be my third lacrosse coach at South Windsor High School,” girls lacrosse player Jillian Yelle explained.
After the 2025 spring season, another coach leaving was a tremendous loss.
“The team lacked chemistry,” Yelle said. “We all felt pressure, it was as if we were coaching the team ourselves.”
South Windsor’s athletic department is once again scrambling to fill the position, and with the 2026 season rapidly approaching, athletes are once again left feeling desperate.
In order to be successful, the girls need a responsible leader who will keep them motivated.
The loss of the South Windsor High School’s long-time girls lacrosse coach in 2023 was evident in the way the team played.
“It is hard to form a bond with a coach when the girls only get a year or two with them,” Yelle said.
However, there is a lot of hope surrounding the 2026 season, as the arrival of a large freshman class signaled good things to come.
“I’ve been watching the high school team play for many years,” upcoming freshman lacrosse player, Tori Yelle commented. Tori looks forward to the upcoming season. “It’s finally my turn to play and I could not be more excited.”
It would be most beneficial for the program to hire a coach who plans to stay. It is important that the team is able to connect with the coach, and they can build the program over time because is a waste of resources, as well as time, to constantly have to replace coaching staff.
Despite the absence of a coach, the girls will begin their preseason training in a few weeks. They will be participating in 7v7 winter games to warm up their sticks.
The girls have done their part, now it is time for the school to do theirs.
South Windsor High School girls lacrosse is dedicated to reclaiming their CCC East Champion Title.
