Changing of the guard for girls’ lacrosse

New face will lead Melrose in 2018 campaign

Published in the March 30, 2018 edition

By JENNIFER GENTILE

MELROSE—The Melrose Lady Raider lacrosse team has a new leader as they kick off their 2018 spring season this week. 

Matt Galusi will serve as head coach this season, taking over for longtime coach Cate Arkins. Galusi has served as Medford High’s girls’ lacrosse coach up until last season and has been hands-on in coaching girls’ lacrosse in Melrose as program director of the Melrose Youth Lacrosse program. 

The 1992 Medford High alum played lacrosse at Salem State University and took the role as Mustang lacrosse coach in 1998. A Melrose resident with children in the school system, his serving as a varsity coach in his adopted hometown is a bit of a dream job. 

“It’s hard to leave Medford High—it’s where I work—but I know these Melrose players so well. I’ve seen their talent in the youth program and quality is there. It’s an exciting opportunity,” said Galusi. 

Last year, Melrose only lost a handful of seniors, so they return with a solid unit who will look to lead Melrose to another playoff run. They include tri-captains Lauren Pedrini, Rachel DiFraia and Jill Mercer, two defenders and a middie (Pedrini) who helped Melrose compete in back-to-back Div. 2 North playoff appearances in 2016-17. All three are multi-sport athletes, which brings Melrose an athleticism and speed that will help keep them competitive this season.

“Many of our players are basketball, hockey and volleyball players, and every sport brings a unique dynamic to lacrosse,” says Galusi. “Right now I’d say our strength could be offense. We have the potential for a number of scorers. We’re also a well-conditioned team.”

Look for the always-solid play of Lily and Abby Cunningham this season, three-sport athletes who are skilled middies that Galusi will count on scoring opportunities. Returning at goalie is Linnea Kelley, who will be assisted by sophomore Marie Maher. 

Melrose also boats talented sophomore attackers Jenna Thorpe and Emma Randolph. Look for returning players Peri McDonald, Mairead Clark and Stephanie Overlan to be a threat too. The program’s overall numbers run 50 players, including a large freshmen class that may see time on varsity. At press time, those spots were still being ironed out.  

The goal for Melrose this week (as for all varsity teams) is to get outside and continue their pre-season training in anticipation of their season opener this coming Tuesday against Lynnfield at Fred Green Field in Melrose. Even if Mother Nature isn’t ready for spring sports, it’s s’no problem for the Lady Raiders, who will be ready rain or shine. 

“I like this team’s attitude. Having known them for a while, I see what they bring to the table,” says Galusi. They don’t complain and they work hard. They’re going to give it their all this season.” 

As always, the Middlesex League will keep Melrose on their toes this season, particularly teams in the large division. But the Freedom League could be considered wide open, with Burlington looking the most competitive. “We have tough competition coming out of the gate. But if we take care of business we can compete with anyone,” says the coach. “And we’re always looking forward to our rivalry with Wakefield.”

Fans can catch a glance at the Lady Raiders when they open up their season at home this coming Tuesday at 3:45 p.m. A full season schedule is listed below. 

2018 Spring Season Schedule

*home games Fred Green Field 

Tue 4/3/18 v. Lynnfield, 3:45 

Thu 4/5/18 @ Lexington, 3:45

Tue 4/10/18 v. Arlington, 3:45

Thu 4/12/18 @ Woburn, 4:00

Fri 4/13/18 @ Saint Mary’s, 3:45 

Tue 4/17/18 @ Mystic Valley, 4:00

Thu 4/19/18 @ Burlington, 3:45

Tue 4/24/18 v. Wilmington, 4:00

Wed 4/25/18 v. Manchester Essex, 4:00

Thu 4/26/18 @ Stoneham, 3:45

Tue 5/1/18 v. Belmont,  5:00

Fri 5/4/18  @ Reading, 3:45

Tue 5/8/18 v. Winchester, 3:45

Fri 5/11/18 v. Watertown, TBD

Tue 5/15/18  @ Wakefield, 3:45

Thu 5/17/18 v. Burlington, TBD