The Revere men’s lacrosse team feels prepared for the upcoming 2016 season after many intense morning practices and technique clinics.

Last year, the team’s record was 8-10, and they lost in the second round of the playoffs to Hawken High School. Nick Pappas, head coach of the men’s lacrosse team, talked about what the team is hoping to accomplish during the upcoming season.

“I want to help the players achieve their personal goals. Also, we want to be the league champions and advance far in tournament play,” Pappas said.

Pappas also commented on how his experience as a lacrosse coach differs from his other coaching jobs.

“This is my fourth season coaching the lacrosse team, and I would say the biggest difference is the number of coaches. In football, there are more coaches on the field, so athletes get more one on one instruction. In lacrosse, there are [only] 2-3 coaches for twenty-five kids,” Pappas said.

Senior Mitchell Sawka, a fourth year lacrosse player for the team, elaborated on what he hopes the team would be able to accomplish this season.

“As any other teams should be hoping for, we want to get the most wins as we can and make it as far as we can into the playoffs. [We want] to rebuild last year’s team,” Sawka said.

Senior captain Chris Crouse, a four year Varsity player, explained the factors that separate lacrosse from other sports.

“Lacrosse is the fastest sport on two feet. In lacrosse you will face adversity, and the way you respond to that adversity is the difference between a win or a loss,” Crouse said.

Crouse also discussed what traits are required a Varsity player.

“[Players need] stick skills, knowledge of the game, good values, to demonstrate leadership by example, motivation, perseverance and a positive attitude. Lacrosse players need to possess many of these values due to the intensity of the game and the challenge it holds to be successful,” Crouse said.

Sawka talked about what a typical Varsity practice entails.

“After our first week of conditioning, a typical practice starts with a warm up of running a lap, stretching and fundamental stick skills. Then we work on improving our game by running plays, drills and games,” Sawka said.

Crouse also discussed the importance of leadership.

“Leadership by example is a huge key for me. A captain is a natural leader and somebody who does the right thing at all times. There are many qualities to being a good leader. Being a good listener and a good follower are [some]of the key traits I look for in a true leader and a captain,” Crouse said.

Sawka elaborated on the importance of sharpening skills and improving fitness in the offseason.

“It is important to practice lacrosse almost every single day to truly be successful at the sport. [We encourage] our players to join club teams and intramural leagues to play lots of wall ball. It is also important to stay in shape which helps with lacrosse play and boosts confidence on the field,” Sawka said.

The seniors on the team include Hunter Bridgeman, Crouse, Joey Gabel, Joe Grajzl, Nick Johnson, Liam Pinney, Sawka, and Mason Wendland. The team is currently 7-8. Their next game will take place on May 19th against Hoban.