1/1

Cub Lacrosse Players Step in and Excel

5/9/2018

Playing goalie in team sports is incredibly difficult. Playing goalie in lacrosse is perhaps even more challenging as the position entails getting peppered by a rubber ball traveling at high speed.

This year, Collegiate School’s Cub Green lacrosse team began its season with no one in goal. In stepped 8th Graders Aiden Foster and Colin Ryan, who graciously volunteered. Since then, the two took some lumps (literal and figurative) as they learned the position. Throughout the season’s ups and downs, both remained coachable and supported each other as they gained skills and confidence, says their coach Charlie Williams.

“Early frustrations led to redoubled effort and determination,” Mr. Williams said. “Much of their improvement can be attributed to the growth mindset they brought to lacrosse each day, striving to learn from each experience. They have modeled the selflessness and servitude that are the backbone of team sports.”

In his second-ever lacrosse game (after just one full week of playing in goal), Aiden saved an amazing 53% of shots in a 10-7 victory over Tuckahoe Lacrosse Club. His game-saving performance energized and inspired his teammates. In a hard-fought game against Norfolk Academy, the team was down 4-1 heading into the fourth quarter despite several impressive saves by Colin. In the final minutes, he made a number of point-blank saves, which served as the catalyst for a furious 6-5 comeback win for the Cougars. Amid the celebrations for the wins, both players were graceful victors in contentious contests.

“They handle successes with grace and humility,” Mr. Williams said. “They model sportsmanship and respect for their teammates and coaches at all times. As with adversity, they take successes in stride and demonstrate gratitude for the opportunities they have through their actions and attitudes.”

The team finished its season 7-3. Before the final games of the season, Aiden and Colin were selected to be captains of the team by their teammates.

“When I think of Colin and Aiden, I think of community and respect,” Mr. Williams said. “They are team-oriented in all regards, and both demonstrate leadership skills through their demonstration of sportsmanship in action. They are the kind of athletes that give Collegiate School a good name.”

Back