As the 2024–25 women’s lacrosse season wrapped up with a solid 9–12 record, senior Briggs Stanley reached a major milestone by scoring her 100th career goal. Stanley has been a member of the Falcon lacrosse team since her freshman year at Green Hope, earning a spot on varsity for all four seasons. She picked up a lacrosse stick for the first time at three years old before she played her first ever game at the age of five for the club Alpha Female Athletics (AFA). “I’ve always loved the sport so I’ve taken it seriously ever since I started playing,” she shared whilst explaining her timeline.
Attaining 100 career goals requires immense practice, dedication and talent. The Falcon lacrosse team practiced every day and had several games a week during their season. The vast amount of time she spent on the field came with its ups and downs, creating some of her favorite memories and helping her find her love for the game. Her favorite sports memories include her travel tournaments with her club team, or just spending time with her teammates in general. “My favorite part of playing is all of the connections and friendships I’ve made. I love when I have friends on our opposing teams, and having friendly competition. I also love having conversations with my defenders during games, it’s cool talking to people I never would’ve met otherwise.”
Stanley also shared her passion for playing and working towards a goal alongside friends and teammates. Her work ethic ultimately paid off in her senior season, enabling her to achieve her hundredth career goal and the third-highest goals-per-game average on her team, with an average of 2.2 goals. “Getting 100 career goals was a super cool experience. I was super excited, but I couldn’t have done it without my teammates,” she shared.
Stanley ultimately played a total of 78 games among all four seasons, scoring 109 total goals and 78 assists. Between her successful high school season and her extensive experience in the sport, she is well-versed in the ins and outs of lacrosse. “I would [ urge anyone who wants to begin playing] not to give up or get down on themselves. We all make mistakes, but I promise no one remembers when you missed a shot or dropped a ball.” Stanley also expresses the importance of recognizing that lacrosse is a privilege to play, and to remember that “lacrosse is supposed to be fun.”
Stanley leaves for NC State in the fall, ending her lacrosse career on a positive note. Her journey stands as a testament to the rewards of hard work, dedication, and commitment.
