As the men’s club lacrosse team kicked off its season this year, the men knew of one major challenge they would face — a lack of experience. This is a rebuilding year for the squad that boasts 24 freshmen along with some rookies on the roster.
“It’s a very young team. More than half of our team is freshmen and we are still trying to find our rhythm,” sophomore and team president Malcolm McCurdy said.
Although the team may not be the most experienced, having a young squad creates a good dynamic between the senior leaders and young players.
“It’s fun to have that seniority and be a leader,” senior captain Matt Samet said.
The Petaluma, Calif., native said that many of the freshmen come up to him not just to ask lacrosse questions but seek advice about classes and tackling college life.
Another adjustment for the team has been the hiring of new coach Justin Eckenroad — known as “Eck.” Eckenroad graduated in 2011 and is a team alum.
“We wanted to get a coach in that was familiar with the program and wanted to keep this program successful,” senior captain Benton Souers said. “We brought him in knowing that he was familiar with expectations for the team and is a player’s coach. He is socialable and easy to talk to on top of being just a really smart lacrosse guy.”
The team is now halfway through its season and has a rivalry game against Oregon State on April 26 before heading to the conference tournament in May and potentially nationals.
The team’s record now stands at 5-4 overall and 3-1 in its division. The men’s sole conference loss was to the dominant Simon Fraser University out of Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.
Oregon is looking to finish its season strong while focusing on playing two solid halves every match.
“Once we start putting whole games together we can hang with anyone,” Samet said.
Souers added that when it comes to success during the team’s games, the squad needs to focus on execution.
“We need to execute the game plan. When we do what we are supposed to do, we are really good,” Souers said. ”But since we are really young, we sometimes get flustered, so if we can handle pressure and execute we can be a really good team.”
Being part of the team is a major time commitment. It also puts a strain on finances. It costs $2,800 a year for each player to participate and buy new gear. They practice every day and often travel on weekends to play.
Although it can be hectic, McCurdy said it doesn’t take away from his enjoyment.
“It’s really not that bad to take three hours of your day to run around,” McCurdy said.
The team has high expectations to finish the year and work hard to compete. But the men pride themselves on being a united team.
“We are defaintly about business. Business is first,” Samet said. “But at the end of the day, we do it for ourselves and to have fun. We are a good group of guys who mesh well.”
Follow Beth Maiman on Twitter @bethamaiman