The Lady Brahmans celebrate after thier win over Palm Beach Gardens. [Photo courtesy OHS Lady Brahman Lacrosse]

OKEECHOBEE- The Okeechobee High School Lady Brahman lacrosse team honored its two seniors before their game against St. Cloud on March 26.

Emma Pereira and Lillie Bandi were recognized for their dedication to the team and the effort they’ve shown throughout their four years representing the Lady Brahmans.

“These two seniors started together and finished together,” said Lady Brahmans' lacrosse coach Aimee Kelly. “It has been an honor to be your coach. Thank you for all that you have done over the years for the program. You both are truly remarkable ladies, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for you”

Lillie Bandi (left) and Emma Pereira (right). [Photo courtesy OHS Lady Brahman Lacrosse]

Lacrosse got its start at OHS shortly after Aimee Kelly was first hired as a physical education teacher at the high school. She put up a few pictures from her time playing and coaching lacrosse, which caught the attention of some of her students. Next thing you know, they were asking if Okeechobee could start its own team.

In 2025, the program had its first four-year letterman in Shelby Busbin. This year, with the addition of Bandi and Pereira, the young lacrosse program’s total amount of four-year lettermen is now three.

This year, freshman Dee Lester managed to notch an impressive 164 saves as the goalkeeper for Okeechobee. Despite only picking up the sport this season, Lester managed to be ranked third in Okeechobee’s division in save percentage.

“It’s been really hard to start a program where nobody knows the sport,” said coach Kelly to OHS Journalism. “I get to give them this sport as a gift. This has opened so many doors. But I love it and I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it.”