Thursday, October 1, 2026
It’s been a snakebit season for North Shore girls lacrosse with the Vikings looking for their first victory with four games remaining.
But with many standouts, the wins could come soon for first-year coach Sabrina Cristodero, a former University of Florida standout.
The Vikings (0-11) are led by senior Erin Lily La Rosa, a basketball star, and sophomore great Natalie Yoo, an All-State selection in 2025. “The Maroon” also boasts a stout senior defensive duo of Catherine Perciballi and Renata Gonzalez.
Yes, the Vikings have a solid team on paper better than their record. There’s been two 11-10 losses to Sacred Heart and Locust Valley, respectively, and a 9-7 loss to Kellenberg last Saturday.
“It’s definitely something we’ve been working really hard for,’’ Yoo said of notching the first victory. “We’ve had a couple of games where we came up a little short. Everyone’s trying their best. We got unlucky a couple of times.’’
Yoo, on varsity since seventh grade, has collected 20 goals and 21 assists with college lacrosse in her future.
“I’m just trying my best to help the team win games,’’ Yoo said. “I don’t count my goals and assists. If I have a look, I take it, but usually I look to assist more than I look to go to the cage. I think I’m better at that.’’
Yoo’s best game came against rugged Garden City on April 23 when she notched two highlight-reel goals and three assists, scoring against a triple-team. But she prefers playmaking.
“I usually take a dodge and look for the slide,’’ Yoo said. “My teammates are very good at getting open on their own. They’re really great at finding space, cutting towards it and finishing off it.’’
Last spring, Yoo collected 83 points and could break that mark.
“I think I have more experience than I did last year,’’ the Glenwood Landing star said. “We played really incredible teams, some top in the nation. It’s cool to learn from playing against them.’’
“Her big thing is her lacrosse IQ - it’s incredible,’ added Cristodero. “She makes other players step up. She sees the field exceptionally well, makes smart decisions under pressure.’’
Cristodero played at North Shore in seventh and eighth grade before transferring to St. Anthony’s, graduating in 2017. She had made her Florida commitment in eighth grade. Colleges can’t make offers nowadays until a player’s junior year. Cristodero will help Yoo through the process.
“I just want to go where I’m wanted,’’ Yoo said. “My ultimate goal is to have a lot of options come Sept. 1.’’
La Rosa will not play basketball or lacrosse in college but she’s leaving the Sea Cliff/Glen Head school in athletic grander. She is tops in goals with 25 and first with 45 draw controls.
“Erin brings resilience and steps up in the big moments,’’ Cristodero said. “Her work ethic, competitiveness, and ability to finish plays have set the tone. She brings confidence, composure, and a strong presence. All the kids look up to her.’’
Meanwhile, junior Lila Archer has also been a strong draw presence, helping control key moments in posting a 13-3-16 ledger.
Percibelli and Gonzelez have anchored the defense with their toughness and communication. “They play with a high level of discipline and awareness, do the little things right, and bring a physical, gritty presence,’’ Cristodero said.
