Boys’ Lacrosse projects to have a strong season

Belle Walker/ Samohi Staff

Samo boys’ come up against Crespi on their home turf on Feb. 24.

The Samo boys’ lacrosse team looks forward to another season after putting months of work in to prepare.

Last season, boys’ lacrosse tied for first in Ocean League with an overall record of 12-7 and a 5-1 league record. The team proved to be a force on the field during league placing first and  assuring themselves a spot in CIF Division II playoffs. Their playoff run was cut short with a 10-12 loss in the first round against Trabuco Hills High School. 

This year, the Vikings look strong coming into the season. Along with their skills that have been developed throughout the off season, the Vikings have fostered a strong team built on comradery. Senior varsity captain, Ben Van Bilderbeek (’26) shared his excitement and the team's strengths going into a new season.

“I’m really excited just to get the boys out there and to win more games honestly. [...] But also just positive vibes too,” Bilderbeek said. “I think our work ethic is really strong this year, and I think our attack is going to be really good this year as well.”

Similarly to Bilderbeek, the other varsity captain Bryce Schatzow (’27) spoke about the team's physical and social strengths going into the season, along with hopes of proving their spot as the top dogs in Ocean League like last season.

“I’d definitely say the offense is really strong this year [...] and we’ve all been playing together for a really long time so the camaraderie is true,” Schatzow said. “Last year we tied for first in our league, so hopefully we can win outright, and go as far as we can in the playoffs.”

Focused on having a successful season, Schatzow also shared what he learned from last season.

“It’s important to be able to play to the best of our ability throughout the entire game, especially the fourth quarter. To implement that into this season, we’re going to have to focus on our stamina and keeping our strength throughout the entire game,” Schatzow said.

Boys’ lacrosse pre-season has started off with a 1-3 record, but the Vikings are focused on building momentum continuing into their season.