The 2026 season is shaping up to be more than just another year for Thomas Worthington girls lacrosse. The Cardinals aren’t just preparing, they’re coming in with intent. With intensity building, pre-season defined goals and a team locked in from top to bottom, these girls are ready to turn preparation into result.
In the lead up to the season, the team had already established what they wanted to accomplish. From competing at a high level to continuing to grow as a unit, the Cardinals are setting the tone early.
“A personal goal of mine through the season is to look back on the beginning of the season and feel I have developed and grown as a player and a teammate,” shares sophomore midfielder, number 14, Evelyn Bartalon. “From a team standpoint, I hope we can face every team this season with respect, but not fear. I hope we can enter each game with a mindset that we will play every game with a fearless attitude, and give it everything we have before the buzzer sounds.”
A major factor in the team’s preparation has been the guidance of the staff as coaching sets the standard for these girls. Emphasizing discipline, consistency and accountability, coaches have helped to shape a team that understands what it takes to compete.
“We are so fortunate that our coaches put so much emphasis on being humans as well as athletes, so it’s a very holistic approach,” says Senior midfielder, number 10, Meredith Estepp. “Throughout the season we are meeting with sports nutritionists and completing our resiliency program that really helps us manage and deal with whatever we may be going through on and off the field.”
The Cardinals have put in the work this pre-season focusing heavily on conditioning, stick skills and overall game readiness. Senior midfielder, number six, Haley Gee explains that the team really comes together to prepare for the season and everyone provides critiques for one another. As much as physical prep is a must, staying focused under pressure and maintaining confidence are key points of emphasis and success.
“We all give and receive constructive criticism in order to be the best team we can be. Mentally we try to build a community and trust between everyone,” shares Gee.
A key factor for Thomas Worthington this season is the connection between players, both in competition and outside of it. On the field, that bond shows up through communication, trust and the ability to stay in sync during fast-paced moments.
“The team dynamic on the field is so energetic. Our team plays with so much passion for the game and intensity. We trust one another and the roles we each have, which is so important on the field. We hold each other accountable as well as share encouragement,” says Bartalon.
Estepp adds, “There is a common understanding of consistently playing for each other. Our success as a team comes from wanting the girl next to us to be successful and putting her in the best position to do so.”
Away from the game, the team continues to build those relationships, creating a strong sense of unity that carries on into every matchup.
“Our team is very close. Because we spend so much time together, it is like a family,” shares Gee. Especially after going through so much together like injuries or a new coaching staff.”
The combination of cohesion and competitiveness plays a major role in how the Cardinals approach the 2026 season. The Cardinals believe their identity goes beyond just talent on the field. From the way they prepare to the way they compete, this team takes pride in the standard they hold themselves to every day. With a strong foundation, mindset and the pieces in place, the Cardinals are ready to make a statement that will turn potential into results.
