Walpole Girls Lacrosse returns this spring after two historic seasons. In Walpole’s 2017 and 2016 seasons they won the Herget Title, Bay State Title, and the Division II East Sectional Championship; additionally, the team became the runner up in the D2 State Championship in 2017. This upcoming season, the Walpole Rebels hope to continue their success while moving up to Division I, and replacing three-year starting goalie, Morgan Fontana.

“We’ve had experience playing against some of the best teams in the state every year so I think we are ready for the challenge of Division I,” senior captain Libby Foley said.

Walpole is now moving into the D1 Eastern Massachusetts league, which is loaded with competitive teams including Westwood, Notre Dame Academy, Needham, and Franklin. Their shift into a new division means Walpole will have to fight though more teams to make the postseason tournament.

Walpole recently graduated 8 of their starters including, goalie Morgan Fontana. Sophomore Laura Giovaniello, has some experience playing goalie for the junior varsity team.

“In terms of varsity competition, there is a quantum leap, but I’m confident [Laura] will figure it out. There are a couple of other girls who have been dabbling in the off season, and like anything else, the best person will get the job,” head coach Michael Tosone said.

Throughout the Winter, Tosone implemented weight room training in the Rebels’ program.

“In general female athletes don’t lift enough, the fact that our [athletes do] I feel gives at least a minimal competitive advantage,” Tosone said.

Goals for Walpole’s season include being a competitive and hard working team, winning games, and challenging their side of the Herget.

“Replicating last year’s success is an ambitious goal, and I’d never sell us short but there are more question marks this year than there has been in the past couple of years. However, I still expect us to be a certain level of good” Tosone said.