The Rivalry: ESM v. West Babylon Girls

Eastport South ManorHigh School girls lacrosse team gears up each season to take on their rival, the West Babylon eagles. This matchup between the sharks and eagles always brings an intense competition to the face-off X. This pairing forces each team to lay it all on the line starting from when that first whistle blows.

During their last matchups, in seasons prior to the cancellation of last spring ESM came out on top both times. ESM beat West Babylon in a close fight 6-5 on April 16, 2019. And again Eastport-South Manor defeated West Babylon with a one-goal difference 8-7, in the Suffolk Class B girls lacrosse championship at Farmingdale State College on May 30, 2019.

Eastport South Manor’s senior goalie, Katie Vahle describes what the rivalry is like when it comes down to game day. “Playing against West Babylon is always a big adrenaline rush,” she says. “They’re a talented, athletic team so we always raise our intensity levels before the game like in the locker room and while warming up. During the game it’s always very competitive and gritty so keeping possession of the ball and taking our time is huge.”

This rivalry came center stage in the 2019 championship. Vahle says this was one of her favorite memories playing against the Eagles. “I remember it was getting down to the very last seconds and West Bab had possession and the rain started pouring down,” she describes. “Getting that final save and hearing the buzzer go off in those weather conditions… it’s always such a fun experience and very intense.”

As the 2021 spring season approaches, ESM and West Babylon players and fans look forward to seeing this Suffolk Class B matchup once again.