Ridge Girls Lacrosse Earns First 2026 Victory In 12-8 Home-Opening Win

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — The Ridge High School varsity girls lacrosse team earned its first win of the 2026 season on April 2, beating North Hunterdon 12-8 in the team’s home opener at Ridge High School.

Ridge improved to 1-1 after opening the season with a road loss at Montgomery. The win came with what the team described as a full-group effort in front of the home crowd, as Ridge bounced back quickly in its second game.

Head coach Olivia Harpel said North Hunterdon pushed Ridge throughout the game.

"North Hunterdon is a tough, talented, well-coached team and we were challenged in many moments, regardless of how well our players executed our strategy," Harpel said. "It was fun to be tested."

Harpel highlighted freshman Lexi Hansen for her early-season play.

"Lexi Hansen certainly did not play like a newcomer — beyond her stats, she competed with composure and for her teammates at every turn," Harpel said.

Harpel also pointed to the work of goalies Rylan Broadhurst and Romey Gussin, describing their outings as "high-impact performances."

According to the coach, every player on the roster stepped up and fought for the win.

Harpel said the victory reflects the team’s work since the start of preseason and the way the group has handled change.

"It has been inspiring to witness this team buy in, adjust to change, and come together," Harpel said. "Their growth and leadership since March 9th has been palpable, and we aim to keep building on a strong foundation."

Harpel said the team’s focus now is steady daily progress.

"We expect to improve a little bit each day that we spend together as a program, and empower our players to reach their goals both on and off the field," she said.

Ridge is scheduled to return to action Tuesday, April 7, when it hosts Pingry at 4:15 p.m.