The Shenendehowa Boys Varsity Lacrosse Season is off to a strong start, their current record being 18-2. “We’re feeling really strong,” said #28, Jack ‘Brick’ Landers; a junior, midfielder for the Plainsmen.
Many players, including 14 seniors, have had their names on previous rosters. However, players said that there are key differences this year that contribute to the overall quality of the team.
“We’re all a lot closer this year since we’ve been playing with each other for a long time,” said #8, Reid ‘Reider’ Metler. Metler is a junior who plays midfield for the team. “We’re building bonds on and off the field and becoming better people,” he said.
Something that has passed on from previous seasons is the team’s tradition of taking things ‘one game at a time.’
Midfielder, senior and team captain Frederick ‘Fred’ Hicks (#29) said, “We’re focusing on each match up one by one rather than the season as a whole.”
While players pointed out that state championships is the ultimate goal, #14 Nicholas ‘Fick’ Fariello said, “If we keep our heads focused on states and ignore the early games, we might leave earlier than we want to.” Fariello is a senior, midfielder.
The Plainsmen recently celebrated their senior night on Thur. May 9 where they beat the Bethlehem Eagles 14-9. On top of celebrating the seniors, the team also had the opportunity to celebrate their head coach, Jason Gifford as he secured his 150th win. After the final score was announced, team captains Quinn O’Connor, JT Wilders and Fredrick Hicks revealed a poster signed by many players to surprise their coach.
Playoffs are rapidly approaching for the Plainsmen. The Sectional Semifinal game is set to take place on Fri. May 24 and players say they are feeling ready.
“The boys are buzzing right now. We’re feeling good,” Metler said.
After a week of no games, the Varsity Plainsmen will take to the fields for the start of Sectionals on Tue. May 21 and continue their season into playoffs.
