As a new season kicks off for the boys lacrosse team, the squad faces many changes to its lineup as new players join the roster. Senior Oliver Lucas (he/him) has been playing lacrosse for two years. He said that he was looking forward to an even better season this year, but after two losses, his goals have changed.
While his goal for this season was for the team to be undefeated, the losses they faced led him to adjust it. Instead, Lucas’ new goal is to not lose again and to help out his new and old teammates.
Other than the increase in new players, another challenge the team faces is that lacrosse is not a Washington Interscholastic Activities Association sport, meaning they cannot compete in WIAA tournaments. Sophomore Greyson Conner (he/him) said that this poses challenges for funding, transportation and participation. The cost of joining the team is $70, which is paid directly to the Inglemoor ASB, with an additional $750 to the Inglemoor Lacrosse Club. The funds are then distributed to pay for things such as athletic trainers, gear and uniforms.
“We don’t have much money, so the cost to get into it is very high,” Conner said. “It would help if we had more gear and stuff. But that’s not something that our club has compared to other clubs.”
Despite these challenges, the team still pushes on. Conner said that the community has played a big role in his development as an athlete by teaching him various techniques and strategies to attack more effectively. When Conner was starting as a freshman on the team, he felt out of place. However, the upperclassmen were happy to welcome him into the team.
“They have a lot of advice. And honestly, I see them playing well and scoring, and I kind of just copy that to score,” Conner said. “That’s how I learned a lot of the stuff I know.”
While the team hasn’t had many opportunities to focus on team bonding activities, Lucas said they still try to do what they can by going out for meals after games. Not having access to district buses also helps them bond by driving together to the games.
“This year, we’re doing a lot more hanging out outside of practice and games,” Conner said.
For students who are considering joining the team, Lucas said that while lacrosse might be a challenge, it is worth it; it offers a fun way to work out and is a fun sport that challenges the mind through learning various plays and implementing them mid game. Conner said he highly recommends the sport because of the physical benefits one earns through playing. The game also fosters a sense of kinship among the players, leading to a wholesome community.
“I would say, if anyone’s thinking of joining, then they should join, because it’s really fun,” Conner said. “It’s one of the best workouts, I’d say, and it’s just a great group of guys, too. So it’s a great community to be a part of, and great friends to have.”
