After clinching the Coastal Canyon league championship two years in a row, defending champions are getting ready to compete in another season. The boys varsity lacrosse team approaches this season with high hopes, determination and hard work.
“This season we hope to beat Agoura, have above an 85% win percentage, and win Division III CIF,” senior captain Grey Stevens said. “We are practicing really hard and working on the very specific parts of our game that are lacking so we can become a more rounded powerhouse of a program.”
Boys lacrosse is a program that takes their time in practice very seriously. They practice strategically, for maximum success in games.
“At practice each day we break up into position groups for specific drills, then do full team scrimmage in a game-like scenario,” senior Aaron Nagy said. “We frequently do runs up to a mile and shorter sprints throughout practice, because running is so important in lacrosse.”
The foundation of the team is solid and made of seasoned players and rising stars. With the same coach and key players returning, the team chemistry is familiar to players.
“We didn’t lose anyone to graduation last year, so this year, everyone has lots of experience and is comfortable playing with each other,” Nagy said. “We’ve learned lessons from last year and are going to be able to apply them towards winning even more games this year.”
Rivalries can make for high spirited competition. OPHS boys lacrosse and Agoura boys lacrosse engage in rivalry and battle every year for the Kanan Cup.
“I am personally looking forward to our game against Agoura, which hopefully this year we can take the Kanan Cup and prove to Agoura that we are better than them,” senior Artem Sodukh said.
As the season commences, seniors prepare to lace up their cleats one last time. This is often a bittersweet experience.
“I appreciate this experience I’ve had in high school and cherish the memories and friendships I’ve made,” Nagy said.
The Eagles are ready for a memorable season. Come support the boys at their first game at Agoura High School on Feb. 14.
