On Wednesday March 18, Loyola Girls Varsity Lacrosse team dealt Evanston a crushing defeat of 20-4 in the season opening game at the Wildkits home field. After losing the state championship to longtime rival New Trier last season, the Ramblers were eager to get back out on the field. The last time Loyola and Evanston met was the 2025 IHSA state tournament, two rounds before the championship game. While the game remained close throughout, the Ramblers ultimately ended the Wildkit season with a final score of 15-10.
The season opener for both teams was highly anticipated. The Wildkits sought revenge for last season’s playoff ending game and the Ramblers wanted to demonstrate the strength of their 2026 team. The opening draw, taken by Chloe Mangel, went to Loyola and they marched down the field. From behind the goal, Kate Loftstrom shot a quick pass to Madison Hogg, giving the Ramblers the first goal. After a series of possessions back and forth, Evanston scored to tie the game 1-1. With another cut to goal from Hogg, the Ramblers took back the lead 2-1. Within minutes, the Ramblers were back down the field and scored off a cut by Jillian Rocchio, but the Wildkits quickly came back to score and cut the lead to only one.
With the majority of the draws won by Mangel, Loyola was able to capitalize on their possessions. Goals by Kathleen Devine, Molly Dwyer, Lilly Haravon and Mae Daverman put the Ramblers ahead 7-2 at the first quarter.
The next three quarters went similarly for the Ramblers. They gained a running clock as early as the second quarter. While an easy victory for the Ramblers, Evanston was missing six key players due to illness which will make the next match up more interesting. The Loyola Varsity Girls Lacrosse program is looking promising for the season ahead!
