Senior Gwendolyn Taffera reached 400 saves during the May 7 home lacrosse game against Voorhees. The game was close, but Del Val won with a final score of 13-12.

”I am very excited to have hit 400 [saves]; especially since this is only my fourth season being a goalie.” Taffera said. “I am so happy my team members and coaches have pushed me to this goal.”

Taffera has been a part of the girls lacrosse varsity team for four years, and last season she ended with 110 saves. She is now just under the school record of 463 saves, currently held by Hannah Oliveras, class of 2016.

“It’s been a heck of a ride for Gwen so far,” head coach Stephanie Rifflard said. “She never played goalie until her freshman year of high school, she stepped into a role and we’ve had a lot of success over the last few years. This year has been really tough and really challenging, and one of her biggest goals was to reach for the stars and set a school record, and I believe she’ll get there.”

Taffera has played lacrosse for 12 years and played defense and attack before becoming a goalie.

This milestone showed Taffera’s hard work and dedication to the sport and team.

“She works off-season, in-season, she’s drilling, she works with the junior lacrosse team, The Chargers, and she’s constantly getting extras reps, and watching videos, and thinking of different things she can do to get better and it shows,” Rifflard said.

As of right now, Gwen needs 42 saves and has 4 games left to beat the school record.

“I’m floored for her,” Rifflard said. “I’m so happy for her. I’m proud of her for everything she’s gotten through and pushed through, she always comes out on the other side.”

Taffera had advice for young goalies looking to pursue the sport.

“Always believe in yourself and be a goldfish,” Taffeta said. “Have that three second memory, and move on to the next one.”