Thursday, October 1, 2026
Despite another strong season a year ago, the girls’ team once again finds itself chasing a playoff breakthrough in 2026.
The Rams finished 10-5 last spring and have consistently posted winning records in recent years, but the structure of Class D has made it difficult to secure one of the four postseason spots.
“Unfortunately, I do think that is the case this year again,” coach Suzanne Kenney said. “We are probably the sixth D school. Unless we win our conference, we wouldn't have an opportunity.”
Still, West Hempstead returns a veteran core capable of making another push. Leading the way is senior attacker Elizabeth Poirot, one of Long Island’s top players. After posting a whopping 74 goals and 99 points in 2024, she followed with 77 goals and 115 points last season.
Poirot is complemented by junior Marissa Koller and senior Daniella Healy, who emerged as key scoring threats with 41 and 33 goals, respectively, helping the offense average just over 11 goals per game last spring. Kenney noted that Koller’s offseason play has further strengthened her skills.
“Marissa has put some time in playing club lacrosse, and you can definitely see that it's paying off because the stick is in her hands 10 months a year,” Kenney said. “It's a strong little trio of players, and Danielle, she just keeps getting better and better. She's such a hard worker, and she can draw from her basketball and her soccer season in terms of adjusting athletically.”
Junior midfielder Willow Stern adds versatility and speed to a defensive corps that also returns senior Mikayla Sarmiento. Speedy sophomore Helen Sanchez and junior newcomer Melissa Bonilla round out the unit.
“They’re going to continue to get better as the season goes on,” Kenney said of the foursome.
In goal, Juliana Poirot returns as a steady presence after taking over the starting role last season and has the “ability to make some big saves in big moments,” according to Kenney.
To read more about the West Hempstead Rams' 2026 boys lacrosse team, click here. To see more of the Herald’s 2026 Lacrosse Preview, click here.
