BOOM. The sound of two players colliding rings throughout the field as CHS plays in their final game of the year against McLean in a 14-7 loss on May 16, according to Maxpreps.  

Last year, the boys lacrosse team’s record was 11-6, with a 4-3 record in district play, which was second overall in the Concorde District. 

“I was not satisfied with placing second, because in the district final game, we played awful, and I know we could’ve done a lot better,” senior and short Andrew Fletcher said. 

Additionally, many games were close, leading Fletcher to question the true ability of the team.  For instance, CHS lost to Oakton 7-6 and to Madison 16-6.

“I don’t think our record reflected how we played,” Fletcher said. “Our record should’ve been a lot better than what it ended up being; we only should’ve lost maybe two or three games.”

However, Senior forward Caden Lenz is one who feels differently about the season’s turnout. Two seasons ago, they finished at 1-14, ten less wins than the previous season.

“I think the team was very satisfied,” Lenz said. “From doing absolutely terrible in the previous playoffs and a horrible season to then having a great record previously and competing with Madison, it was a great season.”

Although they had many surprises the team also endured struggles. The head coach was fired mid-season, leading to confusion amongst the team.

“Communication on defense was a struggle,” senior and pole Owen Schopp said. “That mixed with the change of leadership midway through the season put us a few steps back.”

The team has several underclassmen, including two freshmen and three sophomores. So far, they’ve had two scrimmages, and one home game.

“They will be crucial these next coming years, because we have a ton of seniors this year,” Lenz said. “ We have some great younger players, but the more work they put in, the better the team can be.”

In addition to new players, members of last year’s team have to improve. There are many aspects required for team success, and Schopp agrees with this. For example, the team allowed 143 goals last year, per maxpreps.

“We lost some key players,” Schopp said. “I think we should make depth within our second strings, so our team builds its overall ability not just on a few players. Also team chemistry: if we can improve on that we improve the flow of the game.” 

Madison High School provides the biggest obstacle for CHS’ chance at the district title. Last year, Madison swept CHS in district play in two double-digit losses. They play Madison on April 1.

“We know this year we can beat them and it’s going to be by being perfect with the ball,” Lenz said. “No dumb mistakes and our goal this year is going to be to win the district. We want to take Madison’s streak away.”