A unique game took place in Gainesville, Fla. March 14 when the varsity girls lacrosse team traveled to take on Oak Hall High School. Heritage’s head coach, Coach Corey Engelhard, knew this game would be a good matchup as Oak Hall and Heritage are neck-to-neck in the rankings.
What made this game special, however, wasn’t just the competition, but the family connection on the sideline. Oak Hall’s offensive coordinator, Coach Jaycee Engelhard, is Coach Corey’s daughter.
Coach Jaycee is a former DI lacrosse player at the University of Cincinnati and also played for the Florida Select 2021 team throughout high school, which Coach Corey helped lead. The pair would be together for hours, driving to practice, tournaments and games.
“I originally scheduled this game because I knew they were a strong team and I felt it would be a competitive game. It also was nice that I could see Jaycee since she’s a senior at the University of Florida, going to dental school there next year as well. A few weeks later, she reached out to me saying she was offered a position as Oak Hall’s offensive coordinator,” Coach Corey Engelhard said. “I was excited for the chance to coach against her.”
In regards to the game, it was arguably the girls lacrosse team’s most competitive game this season so far. Sophomore Lauren Williams was dominating on the draw, gaining possession, but Oak Hall played strong defense.
“I think there were some questionable referee calls and I am frustrated we didn’t win. I am grateful that Coach Corey didn’t yell as much because he didn’t want to embarrass his daughter,” senior midfielder Luna Mancuso said.
In the end, Oak Hall took home the victory, ending the game 7-5. Senior Zoe Horwitz scored three goals and Williams had two. This brought the team’s record to 9-3.
However, the day wasn’t just about the score. For Coach Corey Engelhard and his daughter, the game was a testament to their shared love of lacrosse, the countless hours they’ve poured into the sport and the special connection they share as a family.
Looking back at the game, the main word Coach Corey Engelhard would use to describe it is proud. “She was everything I thought she’d be. She’s taken everything she’s learned over the years and has been able to hand it down to the next generation of lacrosse players,” he said.
With districts approaching, both teams will continue keeping their eyes on a district championship. This year, Heritage is looking to become back-to-back district champions. Still, this game will remain a memorable one.
After the game, Coach Jaycee Engelhard joins the Heritage team’s dinner at the hotel to spend time with her dad. (Photo/Zoe Horwitz)
