Warrior lacrosse defeat Wheeler Wildcats in high scoring fashion
The NC varsity lacrosse team begins training for the tough season ahead by working hard and practicing six days a week. Through their first couple of games, players can gage the competition for the rest of the season and where to improve. “I think the team could work on our unity, especially at practices. We are still working together and getting better at playing as a team,” said senior captain Trenton Nolen.
March 1, 2021
After a full season of practice during the fall, the NC varsity lacrosse team (2-1) finally received the opportunity to show what they worked on all year as the regular season begins. Despite a disappointing loss to Allatoona on Thursday, February 18, the Warriors regained their confidence and overpowered the Walker Wolverines on Tuesday, February 23. Continuing this trend, NC beat the Wheeler Wildcats by a score of 15-7 on Thursday, February 25.
“Everyone did what they needed to do and more, and every player kept a positive attitude the whole game. I foresee a lot of wins this season if we play the way we did [February 25] and everyone lifts each other up,” said senior captain Walker Goodsite.
The boys launched into the game with senior captain Trenton Nolen scoring the first goal of the game, while junior attack Braden Coats added the second. The Warriors capitalized on almost all “man-up” opportunities, a chance for an extra player to enter the playing field due to penalties on the opposing team. Nolen secured two more goals for the team using “man-up” to his advantage. In total during the first quarter, the Warriors put up seven goals with efforts by players, Nolen, Coats, and senior captain Reagan Mullinax. The strong start led to high expectations for the entirety of the game, and the Warriors did not disappoint.
The second quarter consisted of five more goals for NC by players Coats, Mullinax, and junior midfielder Brandon Sengvixay. Wheeler attempted and succeeded to score, but the Warriors held onto their lead for the entirety of the game. By halftime, the score stood at 12-6, with the Warriors on track to win. The Wildcats managed to sneak in another goal before the second half, but the Warriors kept up the tempo and scored three more goals to secure the win. Top scorers of the game included Mullinax, Nolen, and Coats. Coats stands as a promising addition to the team as a junior and looks forward to his senior season.
“Last night we did a great job with off ball movement on offense, especially and we placed our shots well. Even though we won we can improve on communication on defense and not forcing the ball on offense off of breaks,” said Mullinax.
As a whole, the team feels proud of their accomplishments defeating the Wildcats, especially after a tough season last year with the COVID-19 pandemic cutting it short. Coaches and teammates hope for a smoother season with wins ahead.
