HSE Boys Lacrosse is entering the 2026 season after previously obtaining 2 back-to-back State Championship titles in 2024 and 2025. And they are not done yet. After winning two straight state championships, the Hamilton Southeastern Boys Lacrosse team enters the 2026 season with something every program wants, but few know how to handle: expectations. Back-to-back titles have firmly established HSE as one of the elite lacrosse programs in the state. But inside the locker room, the message for this season isn’t about defending titles. It’s about earning everything again.
Success can sometimes make teams comfortable. At HSE, the mindset is the opposite. Winning one championship is difficult. Winning two in a row requires consistency, discipline, and a culture that extends beyond a single group of players. For HSE, the program’s focus this year is resetting the standard rather than relying on the past.
The seniors who experienced those championship runs understand how quickly success can disappear if the work stops. Practices during the offseason have reflected that mentality, high intensity, high accountability, and a focus on the fundamentals that built the program.
When asked if there was a certain motto or idea that the team is focusing on this season, Head Coach Scott Beesley responded; “The varsity poster theme this year is “Burn the Ships!”. This phase comes from the year 1519 when Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes ordered his men to destroy their own boats upon landing in Mexico. This action forced his men to fully commit to the task at hand, to conquer the Aztec Empire. It eliminated any possibility of retreat or taking the safe way out. An “all in” mentality. Our team and they loved it. No excuses, no options for retreat, we must give our best and be satisfied with whatever the outcome. Control what we can control.”
From a coaches perspective, this is extremely important. Beesley exclaims that “1% better every day. Success is measured in many different ways. Too often teams and players focus on the end result and lose sight of the day-to-day process. We love the grind and the process. One of my off-season messages this year was that “Greatness is a process.” No magic to it. It takes times, consistency, and vulnerability. It’s a sustained effort. The hardest part about being a high school athlete is being consistent. If we consistently show up for each other, do our best, care deeply about those around us, and focus on the details, we will be successful.”
After coming off of 2 dominant wins against Brebeuf Jesuit and Noblesville, the Royals look to seek their 3rd straight win of the season on Saturday March 14th, against St. Xavier in Ohio.
