In a clash of titans under the Friday night lights, the Community School of Naples’ girls lacrosse team executed their strategy almost flawlessly. Yet, this was not enough to topple one of the nation’s leading teams.
The formidable American Heritage, two-time champions of the state, emerged victorious with a 12-3 scoreline in the Class 1A state semifinals, showcasing an impressive defensive capability that left the Seahawks grappling for answers, managing their lowest scoring output of the season.
“That’s one down, and we’re looking at another challenge ahead,” commented American Heritage’s head coach John McClain, radiating confidence after the win.
With an outstanding performance from the defense, McClain highlighted how they effectively limited CSN to only 13 shots on goal. “The defense executed our zone perfectly—tonight was truly special,” he shared.
Though the Stallions struck with a flurry of goals early on, the Seahawks regrouped, signifying that they wouldn’t back down easily.
At halftime, Heritage held a 4-1 lead. But the Seahawks weren’t ready to be dismissed; Junior Ruby Smith ignited hope by scoring early in the third, narrowing the gap to 4-2.
However, the Stallions retaliated fiercely, netting three consecutive goals and eventually pulling away decisively in the fourth quarter.
“They gave us a solid run in the first half; they’re a quality team,” McClain admitted. “Their players are phenomenal athletes, and we certainly didn’t underestimate them. They’re something special.” Community School’s head coach Brett Queener reinforced that maintaining a low-scoring match was central to their strategy.
“Our aim was to control possession as long as we could, forcing them to work for every goal on the 8-meter line. We definitely achieved that for three quarters,” he explained.
The challenge arose when facing what he labeled as one of the nation’s top defenses, led by the exceptional junior goalie, Ashley Egbert, who made three timely saves.
“We did face some struggles given their quickness and double-teaming tactics,” Queener reflected. “They really threw us off our game tonight.”
As for McClain, he took the opportunity to advocate for a rule change after observing both teams utilize the existing regulations. “We need a shot clock in Florida high school girls lacrosse. It’s time for it; they have it up in Maryland,” he insisted.
In the thrilling battle, American Heritage’s junior standout, Lily Svirsky, made a mark with three goals and two assists, while her fellow junior Madison Vargas matched her goal tally with three of her own, contributing an assist.
Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ scoring efforts were anchored by Smith, alongside Mia Metcalf and Jillian Daley, who collectively found the back of the net.
Queener took a moment to reflect on a season filled with remarkable accomplishments, as the Seahawks reached the Final Four for only the second time in the program’s history. “I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved,” he expressed. “They’ve accomplished milestones that this program has never seen before, winning a regional championship at home and pushing an elite team into the fourth quarter while remaining competitive.”
As they prepare to move forward, the Seahawks will bid farewell to five seniors: Daley, Stella Lynch, Sienna Wyatt, Kaitlyn Confer, and Riley Confer.
“Out of those five, three players will continue their lacrosse journeys at the collegiate level. Each one of them has been instrumental to the program,” Queener acknowledged with sentiments of gratitude. “These five have undeniably improved the Community School of Naples during their time.”
Up next, the American Heritage Stallions (18-2) will clash with Lake Highland Prep (19-4) in the Class 1A state championship game scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025.