Panthers Head to Florida for Preseason Training

"This was such a valuable experience in that we could step out of the elements — that is March in New York — and step into a fair-weather environment where we got a ton of teaching and training accomplished," girls lacrosse coach Alexis Di Domenico said. "Many of our spring teams sometimes do not see appropriate field space until well into April, so this was incredibly beneficial from a training standpoint. The bonding goes without saying. It’s a natural environment for team bonding, which always aids in strengthening any team."

Both squads stayed at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, however, they trained at different facilities. Girls lacrosse played at Austin-Tindall Sports Complex, while baseball trained at Northwest Recreation Complex.

"It's a great opportunity for the kids to bond and get to know each other," assistant baseball coach Neil Jaggernauth said. "I’ve done at least 10 spring training trips before I got here, and it’s always a highlight for the kids and a fun way to spend break."

The Panthers took full advantage of the trip, practicing up to two times a day while also competing in a scrimmage. 

"The biggest thing we hoped to accomplish was just getting much-needed practice and training that's hard to get in the northeast during this time of year," Jaggernauth said. "It was our first time properly being able to get out onto an actual baseball field for practice, so it allowed us an amazing opportunity to get work in."

Of course, the trip wasn't all work and no play. Students also visited theme parks, did yoga by the pool and enjoyed a trip to Topgolf.

"When we weren't training, the players were either having team meetings or enjoying some downtime at the pool or the parks," Di Domenico said.

Both teams will be primed for the season to start as they settle back in up north. Girls lacrosse kicks off its 2025 campaign against visiting Rye Country Day School (RCDS) on March 27, while baseball hosts RCDS in its opener on April 2.