With lacrosse being one of the fastest-growing sports across America, it is no surprise that the Laguna Beach High School girls’ lacrosse team has nearly doubled in size within the last couple of years. The girls of LBHS lacrosse have shown their grit and determination, as they almost qualified to be a part of the 2023 CIF playoffs, despite being their first year playing at the varsity level. The LBHS athletic department has shared their amazement at the increased participation and the team built over the years. 

LBHS’s athletic director, Dr. Selbe, has been “just amazed, and [she] contributes the progress to the coaching staff, who has learned to make a sport so fun.” Selbe implies that the coaching staff has been a massive aspect of the increase in players; their high spirits draw athletes into the environment. Selbe touches on the array of athletes that are involved. “I think we have a combination of athletes who brought the lacrosse experience with them.” The more experienced athletes are patient with the recruit, teaching them the basics and creating vital and valuable team members. Selbe says that the team has already been seeking such improvement, but entering a new, more competitive league will enhance the members’ skills and hope for a 2024 CIF title. 

Ruby Samson, a junior at LBHS, is one of the team captains and has shown her dedication and commitment to lacrosse since her freshman year. She states, “I get an immense feeling of happiness when I step onto the lacrosse field, and it’s even better to do this with the friendships I have created on the team.” This is not only because of her heavy passion for lacrosse but also because of the sense of community, the team has brought her. The coaches and the girls are indescribable, and this team feels like a second home to her. Since the program is exceptionally fast-growing, every player must get along. Without a doubt, Samson declares the “players that are returning from years before are always welcoming and are there to help the new players; overall, it’s a great environment.” The friendships make every teammate feel they have a valuable purpose on the team and show that everyone gets along with each other. 

Both Selbe and Samson recommend this sport to student-athletes. With years or one day of experience, one’s presence on the team will benefit the program. As lacrosse rises across California, more players are showing interest. The LBHS lacrosse team will welcome you and teach you all the basics to improve your knowledge of this full-of-action sport. The team’s progression is outstanding, and the lacrosse community can’t wait to continue recruiting more players and growing as a team.