HSE Boys Lacrosse is a program known for its constant successes and savvy players. With 4 states titles in the last 4 years, and likely more to come, it makes one start to wonder what makes this team so victorious? Is it their quick stick work and dominating defense that gives them an edge? Or is it their experienced coaching staff and players that sets them ahead? Player skill and coaching certainly do their part, but what really breeds this team’s success is the environment on and off the field.
“Our team’s biggest strength is our culture”, said junior, Nate Cooper.
Creating this team culture has been a longtime process. When it comes to a team sport like lacrosse, having players that trusts each other makes all the difference. Simply spending time together has been the most integral part of creating bonds between players. Long practices and even longer bus rides have helped relationships grow, but the most important thing has been time together off the field.
“Hanging out outside of practice and going to team dinners and hanging out on the bus,” said junior, Kyle Jenkins, when asked about his favorite memories.
Pizookies at Bj’s and after game custard at Culver’s has built the unbreakable relationships within the team that make up their success. When asked about the team’s strengths, many players spoke of their uncanny chemistry as being the key. Aside from close connections, the mindset put in place by the coaching staff has also been a huge part of the team’s success.
“Focusing on the moment, don’t look to far ahead,” said freshman, Dylan Joshi.
The team takes the season game by game and play by play. Staying current and in the moment keeps spirits high and attention in. With so much of this season still ahead of them, it’s exciting for fans to see what comes next. With each game being filled with close second shots and insane steals, the skills of this team are easily apparent. But as they take the field, but what more important is what goes on behind the scenes. The familiar and high energy relationships that make up the HSE clan have made this team what they are today.
“We’re more than just a team, we’re a family”, said Senior Braden Finklemeier.
