The boys lacrosse season ultimately unfolded this year the way everyone expected it to: the way most inaugural seasons go under a new regime; the way most seasons go after losing a talented group of seniors. Fortunately, I got the privilege of experiencing the journey firsthand, playing midfielder on the varsity squad. Having this perspective, I could be slightly biased, yet I feel justified in saying that our 4-14 record does not reflect all that we have accomplished this year.
Considering that we made the state playoffs just last season, this year would appear to be a step in the wrong direction. However, the feeling I got from being on the team was the exact opposite. Coach Joe Proud, in his first season as head coach, brought a new and improved identity to the program that the team immediately embraced. In fact, Conestoga’s head coach, Brian Samson, in his 13th season, made a point to let us know that it was the “most energy he had ever seen” from a Harriton team in our 13-1 loss.
The year also featured four graduating seniors, all of whom left their mark on Harriton lacrosse. Senior defensemen Montana Lighthart battled through a hip injury to lead the team with his physical play. Tyler Walsh highlighted his Harriton career by scoring against his brother, the Shipley goalie, in our 10-6 win. Next, the one shining moment from our game against Ridley was senior Harrison Seletsky’s goal in the fourth quarter of our 10-1 loss; a testament to our determination. And lastly, in his first year playing Harriton lacrosse, senior Marc Paquin utilized his freakish athleticism and positive attitude to develop into a vital component of our team both on and off the field.
It will be disappointing to see our seniors leave, but luckily there are some great players getting ready to return next season. All four captains this year will be coming back, including “Team MVP” Chris Lasprogata, “Unsung Hero” Tom Bernicker, and “RAM award” winner Grady Wheeler. Not to mention the offensive firepower of junior David Stewart and sophomore Stephen Saul. Yet possibly the most exciting return will be that of starting goalie Justin Porter. The improvements in his game this year, from the beginning of the season to the end, were unreal. Rightfully so, he was awarded “Most Improved Player” for the varsity team. If Porter can make the same amount of progress in 2014, Harriton is looking at one heck of a goalie.
Ultimately, the boy’s lacrosse team is nowhere near its full potential. Coach Proud has us moving in the right direction, and things are looking promising for next season. Moreover, the seniors were a really great group of guys to play with, and they will be missed. But after this season and the promise it showed, I can’t wait to take the field next spring and continue to build a program that is headed in the right direction.