Trying out for the boys’ lacrosse team this year will require more than just physical ability.
In addition to the usual conditioning and footwork drills, a 75-question multiple-choice test about the rules and regulations of the game will be administered, in an attempt to reduce the number of penalties the team receives. It will also have questions about strategies. In order to play in varsity games, a player must score at least a 70 on the test.
“It’s good for new players, especially, because they need to know the game well,” returning junior player Chris Johnson said. “You can get a penalty just for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
The new test reinforces the idea of going back to the basics. Since several key seniors graduated last year, this year will have to be more focused on developing the necessary skills for a future winning season, returning junior player Kyle Johnson said.
“I expect this season to be a transition year because we’re gaining a lot of new, young kids,” he said. “We have to use this year as a base, then work on improving the team as a whole in later years.”
Despite the hard work facing the boys’ lacrosse team, its members remain optimistic for the season.
“I think it will go well, because we’ve been practicing harder than last year,” returning eighth-grade player Rylan R. said. “I’ve been following my coaches’ directions by running one or two miles per day and practicing at home.”
Boys’ lacrosse team tryouts will be held on Monday, Jan. 28 on the practice field.

By Abi Johnson