By Hannah LIM, intern

Wednesday, April 30 was an iconic day in the history of Crescenta Valley High School when the girls’ lacrosse team held its first home game under the school’s new field lights. This CIF Division 1 playoff game against J. Serra High School was filled with emotion highlighted by the girls’ lacrosse players and coaches who successfully wrapped up their season.

During construction of the lights and bleachers at Crescenta Valley High School, the home field was not available for use by any sports team. There was disappointment among athletes, students, staff and parents when the construction was delayed. Having the girls’ lacrosse team play under the newly completed lights, as well as on the team’s home field, made for a memorable night.  

CV girls’ lacrosse coach Brent Ballard was asked how he felt when given the opportunity for the team to play on the home field under the new lights.

“We have been waiting a long time for an opportunity to play under the lights,” he said, “so for it to be a first round CIF playoff game made the experience that much more special.”

But it wasn’t just the coaches, players or staff who were excited for this moment; students and family members were also present to support the team … and the occasion. Coach Ballard said that although he didn’t recall the exact number of people who attended the game the sidelines and bleachers “were packed.” He added that the girls have been practicing with the ferocity of being in a game and they were prepared for the match against J. Serra. Their hard work and devotion to the sport were evident during the game and, although the game did result in a loss to J. Serra, the team ended the season 15-6 and ranked #8 in CIF Division 1, which is the highest ranking in school history.

According to principal Christine Benitez, the event was “very exciting.” She added the work on the permanent bleachers should be done by the end of the month.

“Then we’re waiting on the completion of the work on the tennis courts and the scoreboard,” she said.

She added that the facility should reopen to the public in late August/early September.

Assistant principal Miguel Gonzales turned on the lights on the home field for the April 30 game.

“It was very exciting to host the game and extra special for it to be our first home night game,” he said.

The girls’ lacrosse team has worked hard during the season and made a mark in CVHS history. The team, which has 11 seniors on it, will forever remember a night filled with joy … and light.

“It’s been over 60 years to have lights and bleachers at the school,” said Benitez. “I can’t wait for our first home football game in September. It’ll be awesome!”

Robin Goldsworthy contributed to this story