Valerie Bell
Student Writer
photo retrieved from gomessiah.com
The Messiah College men’s lacrosse team has an intense schedule ahead of them for the 2016 season.
Going into the season, the Falcons will have to face difficult top 20 teams such as Gettysburg College, Frostburg State, Ohio Wesleyan, and Stevenson College.
Although it may be a grueling schedule, the team has confidence they can win against their rivals.
“I am happy about the success we had and am grateful we were able to develop chemistry in such a short amount of time and have a chance at competing for a conference title,” says Coach Atsen Bulus.
“In my 3 years here I definitely think this is by far the strongest team to turn some heads,” adds junior attackman, Issac Zorn. “I think we can really surprise some people.”
The team says discipline is their best strategy. If the offense can limit the amount of turnovers, and defense can continue playing as a team, the men will have an unstoppable season.
Coach Bulus says the team will continue to work on team culture and dynamics.
“We are working hard to build our character by fighting for the needs of each other on our team, and this will be critical to our success on the field” Bulus mentions.
“Our defense is really, really good. I would say the biggest thing is for them to just play their game. When they are playing their game, not many people can score on them. They are shut down” adds Zorn.
The team is additionally looking to become better at “clearing”.
“Having successful clears gives up more opportunities at offensive possessions and this in turn, will allow our offense to get more chances to put shots on goal,” Bulus explains.
Blake Knobloch, Matt Franken and Justin Bradley are the first line midfielders for the starting lineup. Zorn describes these three players as “mad men.” Knobloch was second on the team in goals with 23 total and six assists last season. Additionally, Franken netted seven goals and dished out four assists while Bradley was third on the team in goals with 16 total and had four assists as well.
Another key player for lacrosse this season is senior Tyler Goglio.
“Our attack crew is led by four-year starter Tyler Goglio and we are excited to have his leadership once again; I believe this rounds up what will be a great team,” Bulus says. Goglio led the team with 25 goals and 41 points last season and is looking to bring more to the team for his senior season.
“He has the most experience, and I really think he’s brought his game to the next level this year,” says Zorn.
The lacrosse team would love the support of the school and is looking forward to seeing some big turnouts in the crowds this year. For a full schedule of men’s lacrosse games, visit www.gomessiah.com for more information.