Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/17/26
One of a series of scholastic previews for the 2026 season

Downingtown West
League: Ches-Mont
Head Coach – Emily Ernest (3rd year as Varsity Coach, 16th year coaching at West)
Assistant Coaches – Kelee O’Malley, Elizabeth Bradley and Dennis Runyon
2025 Record – 18-5
2025 Honors: Advanced to PIAA 3A tourney, Ches-Mont MVP and USAL All American, Phillylacrosse.com Honorable Mention POY – Brinn Findora
Opening Date: March 20 at Academy of Notre Dame
Key Returners: Ava Findora, Brinn Findora, Sydney Fitch, Stella Fitch, Michelle Nguyen, Kayla Rama, Paige Mackewicz, Lily Miller, Emilia Bressi
Key Newcomers: Charlotte Weil, Andi Lymberis
Coach’s Outlook 2026: “We have a strong returning crew and some new players that have hopped in without missing a beat. We have 4 Freshmen joining us this year ready to hit the varsity field. Our focus has been on team culture on and off the field. The upperclassmen have proven to be strong leaders and excellent role models from our first pre-season workout. These girls have trained hard and continue to raise the bar. We are looking forward to a great season.”

Downingtown East
League: Ches-Mont
Head Coach: Kathryn Kropp – 7yrs at school, 4th year as hc, Record as hc: 43-23-1, Assistants – Christa Somits, Rob Ruch, Kelli McIntosh
2025 Record: 10-10
Opener date & opponent: March 19th vs Council Rock North
Key returners: Ella Benner, Lydia Birzes, Joelle Schultz, Collyn Kropp, Ashley Januszko, Teagan McDermott
Key Newcomers: Nat Kibalo, Stella Phillips, Ella Conte
Coach’s Outlook for 2026: “We are a young but extremely motivated group of players led by a strong core of hard working, inspired upperclassmen. Team chemistry and solid work ethic will be our foundation for success.”