At the start of the second half, midfielder Karen Padilla (12) sprinted across the field as Canyon Crest Academy began to gain momentum with their possession of the ball, April 22. Padilla secured the ball and cradled it upfield, weaving past defenders, scoring for her team, which led to girls lacrosse’s 17-14 victory in their Senior Night game.
Padilla said that energy was high from the opening draw as Westview took control from the start, jumping out to an early 5-3 lead. The team’s fast face and strong communication allowed them to capitalize on early opportunities, which set the tone for the rest of the game and put pressure on CCA’s defense right away.
“We came out really strong with our attack, putting away goals early and our defense shutting down their shots, so it felt like we were in control,” Padilla said.
Westview’s defense played a major role in securing the win. Padilla said Brooke Reslow (11) on defense prevented multiple shots and disrupted the rhythm of CCA’s offense.
“Reslow is extremely dependable on defense, always knows where to be, and plays a huge role in keeping our defense organized,” Padilla said.
By the second quarter, CCA began to adjust their approach, applying more pressure to create more scoring opportunities. Despite this shift in play, Westview remained strategic and secure, responding with quick transitions and maintaining control of the game.
Padilla said that underclassman contributions—Ava Firkus (9) in particular—kept the team energized and helped secure key possessions throughout the game.
“She is a very determined player and she always fights for the ball,” Padilla said. “I think she was great at getting the ground balls off the draw and winning possession, especially at such a point where [CCA] was up.”
In the third quarter, CCA brought a notable surge in intensity, pushing Westview to up their defense. Padilla added that the heightened pressure forced the team to communicate better, especially when defending.
“We noticed that most of their scoring was coming from one player,” Padilla said. “Our defense adjusted to focus on shutting her down and preventing her from getting shots.”
Senior Night marked one of the final opportunities for the seniors to play together on the field. Padilla noted how this game carried extra weight, as she realized the mark she and the seniors had made throughout the season, which motivated the team to compete better and finish their last game strongly.
“Even though there were a lot of emotions before the game, [that only] made us more determined to win and [to] stay connected the whole time,” Padilla said.
Reflecting on her final season, Padilla emphasized the impact of her high school lacrosse experience as a whole, describing her Senior Night as “bittersweet,” being open to new beginnings, but sad to finish the season. She reflected on the growth she experienced, both as a player and a teammate, and how those moments shaped her lacrosse career, through confidence and leadership, adding that the memories and bonds she formed will stay long with her after the season ends.
“This team has meant everything to me, and being able to play alongside this group, and to build so many friendships is something I will always be grateful for,” Padilla said.
“Througout the season, we have been there for each other during tough times, and despite getting injured this game, I was able to push through, and I have built memories that will last beyond [just] my high school years.”
