The girls’ lacrosse team is back this spring and hungrier than ever to clinch the state title they have long strived for. With 17 returners, The Lasso sees a long postseason for the girl’s lacrosse team, and an even longer lead on the scoreboard. This is not only as a result of the team’s close-knit nature and consistent preseason practices since Fall, but also because of this season’s Player to Watch, junior midfielder Amy Roche and her inexhaustible athleticism and willpower.

“Amy brings a positive attitude each day along with a strong work ethic,” said head coach Courtney Gibbons. “She is 100% dedicated to our team and shows that on and off the field.”

Roche is returning for her third year on the varsity girl’s lacrosse team at Mason and her eighth year playing the sport overall. During the 2016 spring season, Roche was the leading scorer with 73 goals and runner up for assists with 38.

“She has a wicked shot, she’s really fast and never seems to get tired,” senior teammate Hannah Hiscott said.

Roche won first Team All-Conference, First Team All-Region, and First Team All-State last year and has new goals for the team this year.

“Amy plays a key role for our team because she is so involved all over the field,” Gibbons said. “We look to her and Sarah Lubnow to lead our offense along with winning possession of the draw. They both play a huge role on the team and work very well together.”

But lacrosse isn’t all about one person, it’s a team effort. What makes Roche a great player on and off the field is her understanding of what qualities are important in each player.

“Off the field it is important to be a good teammate. That’s something that I know the whole entire team at Mason always tries to strive for. It’s like we’re all one big family,” said Roche.

“She’s super nice, she gets along well with everybody on the team,” Biggs said. “She is really determined to do the best she can do, and I think just the way she plays is really cool.”

Another thing on her radar is college lacrosse.

“I would like to [play in college],” Roche said. “ I’ve had opportunities to, but I’m waiting for the right school for me.”

The Lasso is excited to see what Roche and the girls lacrosse team has in store for the coming season. Catch the 2017 girls lacrosse player to watch at their home opener against Yorktown High School on March 23 at 7:30 p.m.