This spring, the Wildcat Varsity Lacrosse team is looking to bring a new approach to this season after an inaugural season where they went 2-10.
That team only had two players with experience.
This year’s team returning players have more experience and have brought a new dedication and focus in practice.
Head Lacrosse Coach Brian Edwards was pleased to see how hard his guys were working in practice this early in the year.
‘Guys are more focused,? he said. ‘We all agree that it wasn’t fun losing, so the focus in practice can be seen. We are putting more of an effort into the little things, like passing, shooting and dodging.?
Another thing that Edwards was pleased to see was the addition of Assistant Coach Soo Man Kim.
Kim brings in tons of experience from working at the collegiate level, and he will be turning his attention towards helping improve a defense that kept them in a lot of games.
With Kim manning the defensive aspects of the game, Edwards will turn his attention towards the offensive side of the ball, which was slowed the by lack of experience.
He has redefined the roles and expectations for his midfielders, having a set group for both defense and offensive.
‘There is one goal for the attack and offensive midfielders and one goal for the defense and defensive midfielders,? Edwards said.
With half of the returning roster being seniors, Edwards is hoping that their experience will help carry the team forward.
He is especially looking for Senior Ben McLoskey to step up and become a leader on the team.
‘Ben is starting to emerge as a leader on the field. He wants to enjoy this year and be successful,? Edwards said.
He also expects a big year out of Austin Blaz and Austin Bryant, and he is looking for good things from Junior Goalie Derrick Stensa.
He is excited about the potential of Freshman Garret Kovacic and Sophomore Christian Lopez, who both have picked up the game quickly and are improving day by day in their offensive skills.
The level of competition is going to be much greater this year with the addition of 12 varsity games to a schedule that saw last year’s team play mostly junior varsity competition.
‘It’s going to be a tough schedule, everyone is going to have to rise to the occasion? said Edwards. ‘We need to play like we have been practicing,? he said.
Edwards is ready for an exciting season and is hoping to see a lot of fans in the seats to come out and support the team.