By Stephen London
Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/7/12
POTOMAC, Md. – The Bullis School became one of the first girls’ lacrosse team to wear self-mandated rugby-style helmets Tuesday night when it hosted Paul VI (Va.) to open the season.
Considering that nine Bulldogs suffered concussions last year, players and coaches cannot deny the safety aspect of the game.
Senior co-captain Molly Morris pumped in eight goals, including the game-winner with just over three minutes to play to lift Bullis School to an exciting victory.
Of course the topic of the game was the Navy blue helmets being worn by the Bulldog players. However, coaches and players said the helmets became less of a factor as the game progressed.
“I don’t think that there is any lack of mobility because of the helmets,” Bullis coach Kathleen Lloyd said. “When they introduced the goggles I think that effected their vision.”
It is obvious when watching these two teams to see that each team has their superstar. Senior Morris was a force all night and for Paul VI, junior Gabrielle Nieves poured in seven goals.
“It (the helmet) didn’t affect us,” said Morris.
Whether or not the helmets affect the way teams or officials treat the Bulldogs is still to be determined. However, the topic of using helmets in girls’ lacrosse continues to be a huge issue with the added emphasis on prevention of concussions.
Last year two Bullis players, wearing helmets after suffering concussions. One of those players, senior Carley Sturges, intends to continue wearing her helmet for as long as she plays the game. She has committed to Roanoke.
Due to injuries to Sturges and many others, Bullis officials decided all varsity and JV players would wear the helmets this season. (See full story with reaction from US Lacrosse.)
“There has been a lot of curiosity about them,” said Lloyd. “[Everyone] has been asking us about them… but it is up to them to choose.”
Paul VI head coach Carrie Conques may consider having her girls wear helmets, considering she had two players out with concussions.
“It couldn’t hurt, anything to make our kids safer.” Conques said.
Bullis School 14, Paul VI 13
Paul VI 8-5-13
Bullis 7-7-14
Bullis: Molly Morris 9G, 1A;Chelsea Widerlite 2g; Isabel King 1G, 1A; Morgan Cafritz 1G; Caitlin McMahon 1G; Collette Roa 1A; Dazia Hall 1A; Carley Struges 1A.
Paul VI: Gabrielle Nieves 7G; Sydney Kristek 4G; Mary Krolicki 1G; Alyssa Tutone 1G
