MARBLEHEAD — Marblehead girls lacrosse coach Annie Madden is gearing up for her 16th season in charge of the Magicians, who begin their regular season Thursday in Woburn at 4 p.m.
Last year, the Red and Black finished 12-7 with a Div. 2 state tournament berth. Madden said she and the team are ready to return to the postseason.
“We’re really excited heading into this season. After returning to the state tournament last year, the mindset has been simple: Keep working hard,” Madden said. “We have outstanding leadership from Chloe Rowland, Avery Wysor, Anna Rausch, and Avery Barbeau. They’ve been dedicated to this program since early elementary school and have played a huge role in strengthening both our youth league and high school connection. They’re exactly the kind of hardworking, committed leaders we need.”
The Magicians have a few holes to fill, however.
They lost a pair of high-powered attackers to graduation in Maddie Forbes (55 goals, 28 assists last season) and Ramona Gillett (33 goals, 8 assists), in addition to Kathryn Commoss (45 goals, 19 assists), who transferred to The Governor’s Academy in Newbury.
“Maddie and Ramona were incredible players, and we relied on them heavily. This year, we’re seeing a group of younger players step up who work extremely well together. It’s been exciting to watch them build work together and play off of each other’s strengths,” Madden said. “Kathryn is continuing her high school career at Gov’s and we’re excited to see her keep growing and succeeding there.”
After a week of practice, plus a scrimmage against Lexington, Madden pointed to the Magicians’ speed and strength in numbers.
“We’re going to push the pace every game. We also have great depth this year. It’s one of the most talented and well-rounded groups we’ve had in awhile.”
Ahead of season No. 16, Madden recognizes the need to constantly adapt. She also credited her assistant coaches for their efforts.
“We continue to adapt and find ways to make our program better. We ask our players to be self-aware and that’s something I strive for as well,” Madden said. “One of the most special parts of this job is watching players grow from youth lacrosse all the way through high school and then come back to give to the program. I’m also incredibly fortunate to coach alongside Meghan Ragno, Casey Collins, and Emily O’Connor. I had them as students and players, and now, I trust and value them as coaches. That full-circle experience means everything.”
One thing Madden looks forward to every season: helping girls improve.
“Working with a group of athletes who all want the same thing — to win and get better every single day.”
