The 1995-1997 Cicero North Syracuse (CNS) Girls Lacrosse Team remains a cornerstone of Section III lacrosse history. Referred to simply and proudly as “CNS Girls Lacrosse,” these back-to-back-to-back powerhouse squads set the tone for what high-level high school girls lacrosse could look like in Central New York.

Honoring the Legacy

Driven by fierce determination, depth of talent, and relentless teamwork, this group of young women left a legacy still felt today — not just at CNS, but across the sport.

A Three-Year Run of Dominance

From 1995 to 1997, CNS Girls Lacrosse became synonymous with excellence. Under the direction of exceptional coaches and leadership on and off the field, the team compiled one of the most impressive records in program history. CNS dominated league play, consistently battled for Section III supremacy, and established themselves as a team to watch across New York State.

They weren’t just winning games — they were shaping a movement in girls lacrosse.

Standout Players Who Defined an Era

What set the CNS teams apart during this golden era was the sheer number of players who made a meaningful impact. These rosters were loaded with student-athletes whose skill, heart, and leadership would leave a lasting mark on the program:

• Jen Cassetta – A fierce competitor and midfield general, Jen’s ability to transition the ball and command the field made her one of CNS’s most valuable two-way players.
• Traci Cupp – Known for her speed and tenacity, Traci set the tempo for the offense and was often the first to ground balls and loose possessions.
• Alyson Goodrich – A defensive anchor with a high lacrosse IQ, Alyson’s consistency and strength were vital in shutting down the opposition’s top scorers.
• Melissa Lukins – With vision and poise beyond her years, Melissa served as a key playmaker in CNS’s offensive sets.
• Renee Tarolli – The rock between the pipes, Renee’s goaltending helped secure crucial wins and gave the defense confidence game after game.
• Jennifer Deuel – Whether controlling the draw or pushing transition, Jennifer brought unmatched energy to the field every time she stepped on it.
• Kristy Conway – A versatile utility player with a strong sense of positioning and timing, Kristy helped bridge the gap between offense and defense.
• Jennifer Peri – Known for her powerful shot and leadership on attack, Jennifer was a scoring threat and a mentor to younger players.
• Carissa Haney – Gritty and relentless, Carissa provided the kind of hustle plays that don’t always show up in the box score but win games.
• Julie D’Amico – A skilled defender who never shied away from tough matchups, Julie brought toughness and reliability to the back line.

These young women — along with many others who contributed to the team’s success — formed a cohesive unit that refused to be outworked.

Coaches Who Built a Culture

Behind every great team is a great coaching staff. The CNS Girls Lacrosse coaches from 1995 to 1997 were instrumental in building the culture of toughness, unity, and accountability that defined this program.

• Head Coach Pat Leach – A visionary leader who brought tactical expertise and emotional intelligence to the program, Coach Leach emphasized discipline, team-first mentality, and the fundamentals of the game. Her calm presence and strategic mind helped CNS rise to the top of Section III.
• Assistant Coach Sarah VanSlyke – Known for her attention to detail and deep knowledge of player development, Coach VanSlyke helped shape both starters and role players into confident athletes.
• Assistant Coach Nancy Natt – With a passion for motivation and building team chemistry, Coach Natt brought energy and encouragement to the sidelines and practice field alike.

This coaching trio not only taught the game — they cultivated leadership, perseverance, and sisterhood. Their influence stretched well beyond the scoreboards.

A Legacy That Lasts

The influence of the 1995-1997 CNS Girls Lacrosse Team still echoes through the hallways and athletic fields at Cicero North Syracuse High School. The success of those three seasons helped elevate the school’s athletic profile, inspired younger girls to take up the sport, and laid a foundation of tradition that future teams proudly carry on.

Many of these players continued their lacrosse journeys in college and beyond, while others brought the discipline and leadership developed on the field into successful careers, families, and communities.

Conclusion: More Than a Team

The 1995-1997 CNS Girls Lacrosse Team wasn’t just about championships — they were about character, commitment, and community. They showed what was possible when talent meets preparation, and when teammates believe in something bigger than themselves.

Their names may be etched in record books and remembered in Hall of Fame ceremonies, but their truest legacy lives on in the athletes they inspired and the standards they set.