Harpel sisters help North lacrosse advance
By Zachary Banks, Special Writer
Monday’s 16-2 win over Freehold Township in the quarterfinals of the South Jersey Group 4 state tournament was somewhat of a cake walk for the Mercer County Tournament champion and second-seeded West Windsor-Plainsboro North girls lacrosse team.
Behind a flurry of goals to end the first half, the Knights broke open the game behind strong play from both Olivia and Carli Harpel.
But it was Carli, a sophomore, who stole the show from her older sister, who plans to take her talents to Northwestern next year.
”She’s taught me everything I know,” said Carli, who had six goals in the win over Freehold. “My whole life I’ve looked up to her.”
Strong faceoff play was instrumental in the win for the Knights. With Olivia Harpel controlling the X, it was difficult for Freehold Township to ever gain possession of the ball. Olivia finished with three goals and two assists, as well as a team-high six groundballs to aid her team to victory.
”I couldn’t do what I do without the support of my team behind me, they are the only reason I can be successful on the field,” said Carli, who came into the game focused and determined to move forward in the tournament.
Watching the Harpel sisters dominate the competition, it is clear to any spectator, player or coach, that the newest MCT champions are not satisfied yet. North was scheduled to host third-seeded Shawnee in the sectional semifinals on Thursday.
The Knights are still hungry and determined to hang another banner on what has already been an incredible season.