The Men’s Lacrosse team began the fall ball season on Sept. 16. Fall ball helps prepare the team for the start of the upcoming spring season. Head coach Steve Colfer said, “It allows us to get the freshman out and acclimated to the team.” Assistant coach Ryan Greer said, “The purpose of fall ball is to get the team in shape, critique the freshman and see how they adapt.”
Practices are held four days a week and last about two hours. Each practice consists of a cardiovascular workout that includes a 2.2 mile run on campus, in which each member of the team has to run and touch each of the three exits on campus, stretching, fundamentals and basic lacrosse drills. Senior Tom Grosse, captain, said, ” It helps set the foundation for the new season and develop team unity.” Freshman Nick Terlizzo said, ” Fall ball helps me learn the coaches’ expectations.”
Fall ball ends this Saturday, Oct. 5 when the Cavaliers travel to Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA. The team is scheduled to scrimmage Muhlenberg at 11 a.m. and Widener at 1 p.m. This year returning captains are seniors Mike Pape, Brandon Lawler and Tom Grosse. The offense will be led by Mike Piccoli, Mike Pape, Rory Friel, Justin Gray and Nick Marks. Antonio Massone will be in goal. Leading the freshman class so far are Kevin Rayer, Matt Grosse, Nick Terlizzo and Dan Collins, but the team will need more freshman to contribute.
Practices for the spring season will begin in January and increase to five days a week. The ultimate goal for the upcoming season is to win the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference and go to the National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament. Colfer said, “It’s going to take very hard work and dedication to have a successful season.” The first game is scheduled for March 16 against Mary Washington College.
