Boys varsity lacrosse advanced to district playoffs against J.E.B. Stuart on May 16, winning the first home playoff the team has had in 12 years. Changes made during regular practice made all the difference on game days.
“This season the team had its ups and downs; there were games we got blown out, games we lost with close scores, and games we won by a lot,” junior Michael Augilera said.
Changes in practice, game methodology .and team attitude contributed to the success of the season. Intense drills during practices mimicked game situations that better prepared the players for tough on-the-spot decisions that can affect the outcome of games.
“Our [success] can be credited to our great coaching staff, who push us to do our best. Quick and helpful tips develop our skills and prepare us for future situations in the game, like throwing fakes to trick the goalie into standing up and then immediately shooting low,” junior Will French said.
Overall competitiveness also drove skill improvement among teammates. Practicing basic skills provided a strong foundation for improvement.
“Our game plans this year were more focused on the team and what we could do rather than last year where the game plans were all based on scouting of the other teams,” sophomore Mikey Briody said.
The team’s mentality factored in their desire to win. Going into each game with the possibility of winning instead of thinking about a definite loss translated into a reality on the field.
The team’s record for the regular season was three wins and eight losses, which is a vast improvement from no wins last season. One of the highlight wins was 18-3 against TJHSST on May 12.
“This season is special because we have this desire to keep on fighting and determination to win, even if our record says otherwise,” senior Samuel Cho said. “Last year I felt there wasn’t that fight and we gave in.”