As the autumn leaves fell from the trees and raindrops slowly hit the ground, we embarked on our journey to Nazareth University for a scrimmage against a historical program out of Pittsford, New York. For us, it was more than just a game; it marked the end of fall ball, the culmination of months of hard work, and a chance for us to put all of the pieces together from this fall.
The trip to Nazareth University was a refreshing change of pace from our usual routine this fall. Our bus was filled with anticipation, preparation, and excitement. The journey was not just about covering miles but an opportunity to bond as a team as the wheels turned to Pittsford, New York. Road trips are an excellent time for us as a team to connect through sharing stories, exchanging jokes, and creating memories that will last forever for us all.
As we arrived at Nazareth University, we were greeted with a beautiful campus made out of old brick. The Nazareth Men's Lacrosse team showed us great hospitality, providing outstanding facilities. As we took the field to play in our final fall scrimmage, we knew it would be a very competitive game for us. As a team, we came out firing, scoring a few early goals while making some big stops and saves on defense. After the game proceeded to go on, Nazareth answered with a few unanswered goals, allowing for the momentum to shift to them. As the 4th quarter ended, we won with a final score of 13-7.
We began a 5th quarter. This was a time for our younger players to play against their final set of competition for the fall while showing their talent and improvement to our coaches. Our younger players showed all their development on the field, scoring four straight goals while making great plays on defense and in transition. This was a remarkable moment for us upperclassmen because we got to show our support for them and cheer them on as they made big plays.
As the scrimmage ended, there was a sense of nostalgia in the air. For us, it was the end of fall ball. Fall ball served as a foundation for the upcoming spring season, where we compete and hope to return to the National Championship.
As a player, fall ball has been a time of self-discovery and growth. I was moved to "2-way midfielder," which was a big adjustment, having to learn how to play both defense and offense with a new coaching staff and tendencies. Through grueling practices, understanding unique coaching philosophies, and trusting all of my teammates, I was able to grow not only as a player but also as a person.
The end of fall ball is not just a conclusion, but it's a new beginning. It's a transition from preparation to execution, from practicing to competing, and from being on a team to being part of a family. We are excited to close this chapter of the season and develop a sense of purpose through the memories and development we made throughout the fall season.
The following two months before the fall semester ends is a time for my teammates and I to focus on our academics and training that will allow us to succeed in the classroom and on the field in the spring. We look forward to the spring season and competing against some of the best competition in Division 2 while excelling in the classroom.
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