From Homer, NY, junior Maria Partis is Homer’s girl’s lacrosse top leading goal scorer with 24 goals and 4 assists in just six games this season. Parties reached a huge milestone of 100 points Thursday night against Chittenango, where the Trojans won 5-4.
Partis is a key player in the Trojans program, with just three years of playing. In 2021 she accumulated 33 goals and 13 assists while in 2022 she accumulated 27 goals and two assists.
Partis sat down with Ava Bongiorno to talk about her involvement on the team and overall experience.
Ava Bongiorno: What inspired you to start playing lacrosse?
Partis: “My older brother played and I just always played with him. It was something we did together and it just kind of stuck with us.”
Bongiorno: As a key player on the Homer High School girls lacrosse team, what aspects of your game do you feel have improved the most?
Partis: “My leadership skills have improved along with how I deal with pressure before and during games. I have also learned a lot about myself dealing with my mental health.”
Bongiorno: Last time I asked you what specific goals you set for yourself this season, you said you hoped to hit 100 points by the end of the season. How did it feel hitting 100 points just six games into your season, knowing that hard work paid off
Partis: “Hitting 100 points this season felt really good. It’s always something I’d hope to achieve and I’ve been working hard to get there. It kind of just proved to myself that my hard work did pay off.”
Bongiorno: What do you enjoy most about being part of the Homer High School girls lacrosse team, and how has being part of this team impacted your high school experience?
Partis: “I probably enjoy playing with my friends the most. Most of the team I am friends with and we all get along. Practices, bus rides, and games are always so fun. Being a part of this team in high school has allowed me to meet other girls and get a real feel of a high school sports team.”
Bongiorno: You guys have had a great run so far with a 5-1 record. What have been some things that have contributed to your team’s success so far?
Partis: “Our success this season has come from all of us working together and wanting to win. We’ve learned a lot from last year and also learned a lot from our coaches this year and it’s just been working for us.”
Bongiorno: Have you considered playing lacrosse at the collegiate level? If so, are there any schools you have your eyes on?
Partis: “Yes it’s always been a dream of mine to play in college and now that I know it can happen is exciting. There are a couple of schools in Michigan and Pennsylvania that I liked. The Rochester area also has a couple that I am interested in but I haven’t made my decision quite yet. I’m hoping to commit by the end of my junior year!”