The men’s lacrosse team is looking forward to an exciting upcoming season, intending to “make a substantial jump this year,” according to Head Coach Topher Grossman. He is looking forward to “taking the next step for our program, which is competing for a conference championship.” With this year’s deeper roster, Coach Grossman knows that it is a “lofty but attainable” goal.

This young team with 14 first-years gives the Yeomen a lot of fresh talent to put on the field. The more seasoned players are looking forward to the freshman class stepping up and making an impact this season.

There are many young players, but the upperclassmen are ready to carry their team to victory. With seniors starting at attack, midfield and defense, they will be able to guide the younger players through the ups and downs of the season. They are “a good core group,” according to Grossman. He is looking to all of the upperclassmen to step up and lead.

“Our two captains, [senior] Connor Jackson and [junior] Mickey Fiorillo, have been consummate leaders for us this year on and off the field,” sophomore Sean Higgins said. “They both work extremely hard and it’s evident that their work ethic and enthusiasm spreads throughout the team.”

The Yeomen also have a new addition to their faculty. Bill Schmoldt was hired to help lead the Yeomen to victory as the lead assistant coach. “I am very excited to play for him this year,” Higgins said. Coach Schmoldt comes from John Carroll University with an impressive record and a lot of experience.

“He has done a great job picking up with the defense and being on the field and teaching the guys,” Grossman said.

With an exciting 16–4 win in their first scrimmage last Tuesday, the Yeomen are off to a good start. “They are starting in a good spot and the scrimmage is a good first step,” Grossman said.

With the addition of new rules this season that have changed the pace of the game, the team will have to adjust to the new style of play. Higgins noted that “everyone was working well together” and was proud of the performances given all over the field, from offense to defense and the goalies.

The team officially starts the season away against Olivet College on Saturday, Feb. 23 with its first home game Wednesday, March 13 against Adrian College.