Lacrosse
Boomer Elmsdale
Thu, February 22, 2024 at 12:02 PM . California
The Redwood High School lacrosse team has high aspirations for the upcoming season, aiming to secure their third consecutive MCAL League Championship and make another run at the North Coast Section title. With a strong core of returning players and some promising new additions, they are ready to achieve their goals. We had the opportunity to speak with Coach Blake Atkins about the team's preparations for the season and what fans can expect from this talented group of players. Coach Atkins has set ambitious goals for the team this season, including retaining their league title and going even further in the NCS. However, he knows that these achievements will not come easily. When asked about the key to success for the team, he emphasized the importance of hard work and consistency. He also highlighted the team's strong sense of determination and the desire to continue their winning streak. The core of the team this year consists of several strong returning players from last season. Senior attack Jake Vasquez, committed to Notre Dame, leads the team as captain alongside fellow seniors Eddie Lin (committed to Bates), Jackson Lesher (Colorado College), Nolan Ewing (Denison), Aiden Hackett, and Harrison Curtiss, who is committed to Kenyon. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills to the team and serves as a crucial anchor for their teammates. While the returning players are undoubtedly valuable assets to the team, Coach Atkins is also excited about the potential impact that freshman Charlie Anderson will have this season. Anderson, who plays midfield and short stick defense, is expected to make an immediate impact on the field. Leadership and team chemistry are crucial for any successful team, and Coach Atkins carefully chooses his team captains based on their on-field performance and off-field qualities. This season's captains possess an impressive combination of leadership, skill, and dedication, making them excellent role models for their teammates. Coach Atkins is confident in their ability to create a strong sense of camaraderie within the team, as they have done in previous seasons. In terms of motivation, Coach Atkins believes in pushing his players to reach their full potential. He encourages them to have a strong work ethic and to constantly strive to improve themselves. This motivation also comes from within the team, as the players have a shared desire to achieve their goals and prove themselves on the field. The biggest challenge for the team this season has been the rigorous preparation required to compete at the highest level.