Three goals away from one of the biggest accomplishments as a lacrosse player, Olivia Johnsen entered her first game of senior year. She had nothing but hope that she could reach her milestone of 100 goals  for her Hillsborough lacrosse career.

The varsity girls lacrosse team faced Bernards High School in their first game this season. Coming off of a particularly successful season last year, the team now had to adjust to a completely new coaching staff this season.

Although the team fell short to Bernards, 10-8, Johnsen scored four goals that night. She was able to find her way to achieving her mission of scoring 100 goals as a varsity athlete. As she scored her third goal of the game and 100th of her career, the emotions of friends, teammates, and family flooded the field.

“It was really exciting getting my 100th goal because I didn’t think I was going to get it since I broke my leg freshman year and had to sit out my first year on varsity,” Johnsen said.  “I couldn’t have done it without all my teammates and especially Lisa Ross because we work really well together. She always knows where I am on the field.”

In addition to her major accomplishment, Johnsen was also celebrating her 18th birthday. Sara Coutts, another talented senior player, made the assist to Johnsen on her 100th goal and as she explained, it was the best present that she would never forget.

“Sara Coutts assisted me which was cool because we’ve been playing together for so long and are such good friends,” Johnsen said. “Overall, I was really happy that I was finally able to get my 100th goal and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the season goes.”

The girls lacrosse team still has a long season and has many more accomplishments to achieve. The fans, players, and coaches expect big things from such a talented group of girls. It will come down to execution and leadership from the players on the field to be successful.

In the end, this memory for the stellar lacrosse player will be one that will stick with her through the years. Johnsen is excited to further her lacrosse career at Central Michigan University, where she will undoubtedly achieve additional success.