The Benilde-St. Margaret’s girls’ lacrosse team has started off their season with a record of five wins and three losses. They are ranked among the top ten in the state, sitting at number six.

While the girls’ lacrosse team has been good in the past, this year’s squad seems propelled to an even higher level, believes senior defense Peyton Murphy. “This is one of the best seasons Benilde girls’ lax has ever had. We have really talented players throughout all of the grades. Everyone is really close this year and we have really good chemistry,” Murphy said.

The girls suffered two defeats in their last two games, Rosemount and Chanhassen. Mental errors proved troubling for the Red Knights. “The last two games were surprising. We were beating ourselves with bad shots and passes, stupid turnovers, and lack of confidence,” Murphy said.

The most notable loss was Chanhassen. The girls fell short with a final score of 16-4. “We all freaked out and scared ourselves thinking we weren’t the better team. We were on our heels the entire game, waiting for Chan to make the plays or rushing the attack. Everyone was off that game and honestly forgot how to play lacrosse,” Murphy said.

Outside of a few losses, the team has been coming up with big wins against top programs. The pieces seem to be coming together. “We are all super close this year; we all trust each other. The big win against Blake helped us gain confidence and proved how our hard work has paid off. Everyone has been working so hard this season and during the pandemic. We all came ready to compete this year,” Murphy said.

There are many grades represented on the team, making for a very new group of girls after they were not able to play last year due to COVID-19 cancellations. “I’m so proud of how everyone came together after not having a season last year. The freshmen this year are extremely talented; they are a huge addition. I’m also proud of the upperclassmen who have welcomed all of the younger/new girls to the team,” Murphy said.

As the team continues to pick up steam and gain confidence, they look to the future with a big goal. “This is the first year the state tournament is in our future. Our biggest goal this year is to make a run in the state tournament for the first time ever,” Murphy said.