Despite graduating key senior captains, Bearden High School’s lacrosse team continues to prove why it remains one of the top-ranked programs in the state.
With new leadership stepping into larger roles, the Bulldogs have maintained their high level of play through consistency, communication, and a team-first mindset.
The Bulldogs (13-4) finished as region champs for the second consecutive year. The Bulldogs will travel to Cookeville (8-7) on Friday for a 7 p.m. semifinal in the TSSAA state tournament. A win puts them in the state championship game May 15 against the winner of Ravenwood and Franklin.
Returning attack captain Lucy Ruberg said the team’s focus starts long before game day.
“Being consistent at practice, consistently practicing at the highest level of effort we can, and entering every game with a chip on our shoulder,” Ruberg said. “That’s how we stay focused and not get comfortable with our ranking.”
Even with new and younger players stepping into the lineup, Bearden’s offense has continued to develop. Ruberg said the unit has grown by learning how to play together rather than relying on individual talent.
“We’ve learned how to work together as a team even with the new players,” she said. “We’ve learned to move as one and highlight each other’s strengths while hiding any weaknesses to execute at the highest level.”
Building chemistry between experienced players and newcomers has also been a priority, especially in high-pressure situations.
“By supporting each other and encouraging while offering criticism, we continue to grow together,” Ruberg said. “The seniors make it a point to be people our younger teammates can lean on when they need advice or help.”
Midfield captain Kendall Coe said communication has been key to maintaining the team’s elite status, even with new faces on the field.
“Preseason practices have helped build team chemistry,” Coe said. “With team experience mixed with good communication, it all flows really well.”
As a midfielder, Coe plays a demanding role that requires both physical effort and leadership. Trust in her teammates has allowed her to balance both responsibilities.
“Knowing my strengths, my assignments, and trusting my teammates to fill space when I leave it makes a big difference,” Coe said. “I know I have teammates who can step in and that trust helps everything work.”
Stepping into a larger leadership role has also helped Coe grow as a player.
“It’s made me realize what I need to do for my team,” she said. “I need to show up and lead by example.
“Understanding drills and communicating with my team has been a challenge, but it’s a challenge that’s helped me in the long run.”