Clarke Rams girls lacrosse team’s goal is a playoff berth

It’s been a meteoric rise for the girls’ lacrosse program over the past two seasons and the Rams are looking for a senior group that led the way to go out with a playoff appearance.

Back-to-back campaigns of 12 and 10 wins under former longtime coach Rick Aragona served noticed Clarke can no longer be take. n lightly. First-year coach Jackie Gatti and returning assistant Nicole Rizzo are looking for it to take the next step.

Both last spring and in 2024, the Rams came within a win of reaching the postseason.

“Our seniors are so excited and eager to keep the momentum going,” Gatti said. “Everyone is on the same page. Their stick skills are strong and we’ve got speed. We’ll be disappointed if we don’t make the playoffs.”

There’s experience up and down the field. Seniors Ayla Abate (18 goals, 20 assists) and Mia Lucas (23 goals) will lead the attack and are all-around playmakers who can score and feed.     “One will be on the left and the other on the right,” Gatti said. “We’ll be playing a cat and mouse game with those two and they’ll be tough to stop.” Senior Diana Velez is stepping into a larger role on attack and brings varsity experience.

The midfield has the personnel to be special. Senior Gianna Riccobono netted 34 goals a year go and plays a key role at both ends of the field, as does senior Erin Frank (17 goals.) The latter is crucial in the draw circle. Freshman Allison DeLuca led the JV in 2025 and is a talented athlete who makes everyone around her better, Gatti said.

Anchoring the defense is senior Ava Ruperto, a speedster who’ll be tasked with the toughest assignment every game. Junior Julia Cardoza is a consistent defender, and junior Victoria Ruperto will provide a spark as a defensive-minded middie.

In goal, senior Sofia Zito and junior Kamryn Smith are in a healthy competition for playing time, Gatti said. Zito was a backup on varsity and Smith the JV starter.

To read more about Clarke Rams' 2026 boys lacrosse team, click here. To see more of the Herald’s 2026 Lacrosse Preview, click here.