It was a celebratory Wednesday for St. Mary’s girls lacrosse team. Not only did the Spartans (9-1) secure an 18-14 win against Archbishop Williams, but senior standout Ava Nason reached a significant milestone. 

Entering the game, Nason sat at 293 goals, but when the refs blew the final whistle, Nason (7 goals, 2 assists) had reached the 300-goal mark for her career.

According to first-year coach Jess Gambale, Nason was still focused on her team’s performance.

“Even when Ava was at 299 goals, she was passing off the ball, looking to give assists for her teammates, and keeping in mind the greater good of the team,” Gambale said. “I’m incredibly proud to be her coach during this milestone and proud of her teammates who have assisted her, pushed her at practice, and cheered her on along the way.” 

Nason also tilted the spotlight toward her fellow Spartans.

“Reaching 300 goals is a tribute to my teammates. Lacrosse is a team sport and I’ve played with a lot of great players over the years,” Nason said. “They are who I have to thank for this incredible milestone.”

Speaking of teammates, also contributing were Shaye Denning (4 goals, 3 assist), Alyssa Norden (3 goals, 2 assists), Alexis Penney (2 goals, assist), Camdyn Driscoll (goal, assist), and Keira Twomey (goal). The Spartans were ranked No. 4 in the MIAA’s latest Div. 3 power rankings.

Gambale has been impressed with Nason’s abilities — on and off the field. 

“Ava is one of the most skilled lacrosse players I’ve ever seen and she shares her lacrosse knowledge with her teammates and myself,” Gambale said. “She has taught me new things to help me be a better coach. She is always willing to give pointers to her teammates to improve their games.”