SO READY: Stuart Country Day School lacrosse player Isabel Soto, right, fights off a foe in action last spring. Senior attacker Soto figures to be a key offensive threat for the Tartans this spring. Stuart opens the 2013 campaign when it hosts Princeton Day School on April 2.
(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski)

For Caitlin Grant, things are running like clockwork in her second season as the head coach of the Stuart Country Day School lacrosse team.

“I think last year was a lot of learning for me and the players,” said Grant, who guided Stuart to a 4-11 record last spring.

“This year there is no messing around. At 3:15, the kids are ready to go and run laps. The captains took it upon themselves to have captain’s practices before the season so that was a big help.”

In Grant’s view, her team should get some big help from its group of freshmen.

“Last year none of the freshmen had played lacrosse,” said Grant, whose squad hosts Princeton Day School on April 2 in its season opener.

“This year we have five freshmen who have played outside lacrosse before. We have two freshmen who are new to the game but are picking it up so quickly that I can’t believe it.”

Grant is confident the Tartans will pick it up offensively this spring. “Isabel Soto played well last year and is at attack again,” said Grant.

“Amy Hallowell is always going to be a good one for us. We have three freshmen, Tori Hannah, Julia Maser and Sam Servis, who are doing well and are going to be really good. Rose Tetnowski is also doing well.”

The Stuart defense will be spearheaded by two veterans. “Isabel Lapuerta and Meghan Shannon are the two starters coming back there,” said Grant.

Sophomore Harlyn Bell came on strong last year at goalie and Grant is expecting her to be even better in 2013.

“Harlyn just tried out for a travel team and made it; she played over the summer too,” said Grant. “She is really quick and is able to clear the ball a long way down the field.”

In Grant’s view, the Tartans have the potential to come a long way this spring. “I think this group is going to do well,” asserted Grant.

“We are young but we are going to be tough to beat. They push each other hard in practice and hold each other accountable. I am really excited for the season.”