Despite a turbulent week preceding the start of the season, which included the firing of assistant coach Matt Berg, the BU lacrosse team won their opener with a convincing 11-4 win over Clarkston.
Sophomore Matt McCarthy led the charge for the Maples, scoring six goals with two assists in an impressive performance.
Junior Mike Schmock added 3 goals and an assist.
Other key returning players from last year’s team are Seniors Trevor Stapleton, John Piceu, and Alex Vasileff.
According to first year head coach Jeff Martin, BU will have to adjust to losing an All-State midfielder in Tim Palmer.
“Tim Palmer is definitely our biggest loss from last year,” said BU coach Jeff Martin. “He was one of the best midfielders in the state, and also a great faceoff man.”
Still, according to Senior starting goaltender Patrick Kelly, this season should be a good one.
“We have a good team,” said confident senior Patrick Kelly. “I am looking forward starting our season.”
Last year’s squad finished 11-10 on the season, eventually falling short in the regional final game against U of D. In order to improve upon last year’s results, Coach Jeff Martin had some key ideas.
“Our keys for success this year are to play fast and consistent,” said coach Jeff Martin. “It will be important how we combine our older players with our younger, inexperienced players.”
Having a quick learning curve will be an important factor in BU’s success this year.
“Our younger guys need to step up,” said Stapleton. “I think they will rise to the challenge.”
Sophomore Matt McCarthy had a few things to say about the Maple’s eventful offseason.
“We kind of got off to a rocky start this year, with assistant coaches getting fired and stuff,” said sophomore Matt McCarthy. “There will definitely be some adjustment, with having a new coach.”
BU’s most difficult tests this year will be April 3rd at Catholic Central , and May 1st when they host Brother Rice.
“Rice and CC are definitely our toughest games this year,” said senior goalie Patrick Kelly. “The CC game is pretty early on, and that is always an important game.”
BU Senior Trevor Stapleton is looking to silence some critics this season.
“A lot of people think that we aren’t going to do so hot,” said Trevor Stapleton. “I think otherwise and want to prove them wrong.”
Stapleton thinks that new coach Jeff Martin is just what this team needs to reach new heights.
“Our new coach is a really nice guy,” said Stapleton. “I think he will take this program to levels that it has never reached before.”
