For the first time in program history, the Ithaca High School varsity girls lacrosse team is headed to the New York State Class A semifinals. The Little Red secured their spot with a commanding 15–4 win over Valley Central in the regional final on Saturday, June 7.
Ithaca will face Section I champion Suffern in the semifinal matchup, scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 13, at SUNY Cortland’s White Field. The game will be live-streamed on the NFHS network, and tickets can be purchased here.
The team now holds an impressive 17-1 record for the season, including an undefeated run in league play. Senior Ella Thomforde leads the team in goals, while sophomore Sage Bliss has been a dual threat all season, contributing four goals and four assists in the win over Valley Central. The midfield unit—comprising senior Reese Cole, juniors Taylor Kerber, Emma Bakos, and Skyla Lee-Byrnes, and ninth-grader Ava Fontaine—has been dominant, posting record numbers of draw controls, ground balls, and caused turnovers.
On the defensive end, junior Kate Thomas has been pivotal with her play and leadership. Senior goalie Olivia Frazier recorded 15 saves in the regional final and has held opponents to fewer than five goals per game on average. Collectively, the team has scored more than 250 goals this season while allowing fewer than 90.
“Coach Kaitlyn Hoffay has been instrumental in the success of our program,” Samantha Little, Director of Athletics and Wellness, said. “As both a former player and a dedicated JV and varsity coach, she embodies Ithaca Athletics. Her passion, commitment, and strong connections with scholars have driven the team’s growth over the past decade. The excellence our athletes show is a direct reflection of her leadership.”
A community send-off for the team will take place at 9:15 a.m. on Friday, June 13, at Ithaca High School’s Deebs Field.
The ICSD Athletics Department provides opportunities for students in grades pre–K–12 to participate in a wide range of athletic programs. The department is committed to building inclusive, supportive environments where student-athletes grow through teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Ithaca Athletics values equity, respect, and sportsmanship, and strives to ensure that all participants—students, families, coaches, officials, and community members—are recognized and respected as part of the athletic experience.