Freedom plans to be in the conversation in girls’ lacrosse this season, as the Patriots bring back a heavy dose of senior talent to lead their quest towards another district berth this spring.

The Pates finished last year 7-8-9 and lost in the first round of the District 11 tournament, but bring back a strong core this season.

Back in the fold are seniors Karee Vandever, Jenelle Karabinus, Emma Mannino and Saige Carter (junior).

Vandever is a midfield captain with 195 career goals and is heading to Division-I Fairleigh Dickinson.

Karabinus leads the attack withy 135 career goals and has committed to Bloomsburg.

Mannino is heading to DeSales and led the team with 38 assists last year in the midfield.

Carter is another talented midfield captain who has committed to Southern Connecticut State.

Peyton Haas (Junior, Defense); Madeline Gasper (Junior, Defense) and Ava Greenberg (Attack) round out returning players for the Pates.

Ivy Avitabile and Mia Raub are new players that figure to be in the mix as well.

“Our team is built around the strength of our core veteran leaders- Vandever, Karabinus, Carter and Mannino-along with Haas and Gasper,” said head coach Charis Innarella. “We continue to work every practice to improve our skills and fill the gaps, getting better each day. Our team this season is filled with a group of athletes that have a passion for lacrosse with a desire to improve and motivated to be there for each other. Great kids who are extremely coachable and enjoyable to coach.”

The Pates open the season this week against Central Catholic.