BLYTHEWOOD — While a 5-9 overall record might suggest a season of struggle, the Blythewood Bengals girls lacrosse team is telling a different story where it matters most: in the region standings.
The Bengals currently sit at 4-2 in 5A Lower District 4, proving they are a formidable force when facing regional rivals. The team has found its stride late in the season, punctuated by a gritty 11-10 road win over Dutch Fork on April 13 and a dominant 26-4 victory over Spring Valley on April 16.
The Bengals’ offense has been explosive throughout the spring, averaging 13.1 goals per game. Two games, in particular, showcased Blythewood’s scoring depth: a 29-4 rout of Irmo in early March and a 31-0 shutout against Westside on March 13.
At the heart of the Bengals’ success is a veteran roster featuring 13 seniors. Senior Anna Swindler has been the engine of the offense, leading the team in almost every statistical category with 45 goals and 17 assists for a total of 62 points. Her 87 shots on goal demonstrate an aggressive style of play that often dictates the tempo of the game.
Swindler is supported by a high-powered senior cohort, including Lucy Campbell and Elli Nels, who have each contributed 33 goals. Nels also leads the team in unselfish play with 14 assists. Senior Marley Phillips has added 29 goals, while sophomore Taylor English has emerged as a future star with 19 goals and seven assists.
Defensively, the Bengals have relied on the senior presence of Breana Cabrera, Grace Sanders, and Reece Campbell to protect the net, where freshman goalkeeper Zoe Solomon has gained valuable experience, recording 145 saves on the season so far.
As the Bengals look toward the postseason, their 0.585 draw-control percentage suggests they have the ability to win possessions and control the clock—a vital asset in playoff lacrosse. With their recent momentum in region play, Blythewood is positioning itself as a dangerous out in the upcoming 5A bracket.
The Bengals await seeding announcements, but playoffs are set to begin next week, with the top seeds getting first round byes. The first round is set for Monday, April 27. Second and third rounds will be May 1 and May 4; the Division 1 title game is set for May 9.