
It’s halftime. The score is tied up 4:4 and the Castilleja varsity lacrosse team is gathered around coach Claire Mancini. Addressing the huddle of student-athletes, she reinforces that they need to communicate and drive forward: “You have to trust one another enough to take risks, your teammates will have your back.” The whistle blows, and within moments the offensive line catches a breakaway and thunders down the field. There’s an intense flurry around the goal post. Cradling the ball, the forwards dash to-and-fro looking for an opening, resisting the temptation to rush or lose their hard-earned offensive position with a poorly-placed shot. After a few long seconds of strategic passing, a forward receives the ball and sees her opening. Seizing the opportunity, she shoots, decisively hurling towards her target. The ball rockets into the goal and Castilleja pulls ahead.