Philly Leader

University of Pennsylvania Law School issued the following announcement on May 17.

For the second consecutive year – and the fourth time in five years – the Varsity Lacrosse team captured the Friends Schools League title of Lacrosse Champions. The No. 1 seeded Tigers beat the No. 2 Shipley Gators 13-8 on a rainy Friday, May 13, in front of cheering crowds. It was spectacular!

“This is a really special team, I appreciate their attention to their mindset; they have lifted each other up in high pressure situations. Each athlete has contributed in meaningful ways. Whether it is in a defensive drill in practice or winning an important draw, each team member contributes to the good of the group – both in their physical all out hustle and also in their mental concentration, determination and dedication to getting better each day,” said Katie Bergstrom Mark, Varsity Head Coach in her 21st year at the helm. 

The Tigers trailed only once the entire game – after a quick goal by Shipley – and played with great skill and composure for 50 minutes, anchored by a steady defense and balanced attack. At the half, GFS led 5-4. Shipley started the second half with a quick goal and the Tigers went to work building a second half surge highlighted by 8 unanswered goals to set the tempo for the rest of the game. With 17 minutes left in the game, GFS dominated and led in every statistical column, in particular the loose 50/50% ground balls. 

Powering the Tigers offensively were Clare Meyer ‘22 (4 goals, 2 assists), Annie McLaughlin ‘22 (3 goals, 1 assist), Zoe Schaedle ‘22 (3 goals), Ella Shay ‘23 (2 goals), Alexa Hanson ‘22 (1 goal, 2 assists), and Claire Rigdon ‘25 (1 assist). 

Goalkeeper Isla Ablin ‘24 was the backbone of the defense, recording 6 saves and 2 ground balls. Bluma Hammarhead ‘22 (3 gbs), Katie Day ‘25 (4 gbs), Riya Mainign ‘25 (1 gb), and Dylan Ragas ‘22 showed great skill and composure against a tough opponent, thwarting numerous drives to goal and shot attempts, and transitioning the ball up the field safely time after time. 

At the final buzzer, the team stormed the field and surrounded their goalkeeper. Joined by family and friends, the  Varsity Lacrosse team received their FSL medals and plaque from Coach Bergstrom Mark. The GFS 2022 FSL Lacrosse Championship title is the 21st in program history – more than double any other league opponent.

“Winning is so much fun, but more important is to see the athletes put all of their skills together when it matters.  The ability to constantly regroup, refocus, and believe in themselves is the backbone to having a rewarding life beyond sports. Our hope is that they can take those skills with them wherever they go – whatever detours they have to navigate.  This is a talented group and they have grown a lot as a team. I will remember this squad for their tenacity and never give up attitude!”

Original source can be found here.