With a 3-4 record so far this season, the boys lacrosse team is off to a strong start with wins against The Williams School, Marianapolis Prep, and The Bancroft School.
The strong start this season can largely be credited to a shift in mindset and culture that senior captain midfielder Dalton Smith emphasized. “I think our stronger start to the season stems from the team’s culture…our team chemistry is still very high,” Smith said, emphasizing how even a younger, less experienced roster has come together effectively. While having a younger team presents challenges, Smith noted that it has also created new opportunities, describing the group as flexible in the way they play and open to adapting new systems.
The team is off to a strong start and is on a winning streak. They had a key win against Marianapolis Preparatory, winning 14-1. They also secured a solid 11-7 victory against the Williams School, showing their ability to compete at a high level against tough opponents. Leading the way is Smith, who has dominated at the faceoff position with an outstanding 500 faceoff wins, playing a critical role in the team’s success.
They have many tough games ahead of them, including Greenwich Country Day on May 2, but Smith and his coaches do not doubt how the team will continue to play.
As a leader, Smith has focused on helping younger players adjust to the speed and intensity of varsity competition by pushing them in practice and setting a high standard. Despite the team’s success so far, he believes there is still room for growth, particularly on offense and in tightening up defensively.
Reflecting on the team’s turnaround after a winless season, Smith shared his thoughts. “The strong start… has not been too much of a surprise,” he said. Pointing to a dramatic improvement in the team’s heart and focus compared to last year, Smith has an attitude that continues to drive their early success.
In addition to strong senior leadership. Several younger players have stepped into key roles and made an immediate impact. Freshmen midfielders Matty Towne and Bryce Schaller, and attack Gabe Wynner have all contributed significantly to the team’s performance. Towne and Schaller have brought strong stick skills and high lacrosse IQ to the midfield, contributing both goals and assists. Towne recently tallied two goals and two assists in a standout performance against Rocky Hill Country Day School. Meanwhile, Wyner has emerged as a dangerous presence on the attack, using his footwork and shooting ability to create scoring opportunities. In a game against Williams, he recorded a hat trick in just the first quarter, highlighting his offensive potential.
Team chemistry has also been a major factor in the team’s turnaround. “Currently, our team chemistry is at an all-time high,” Head Coach Josh Shafer said, pointing to the strong bonds across all grade levels. “From the locker room, to the weight room, to on the field, freshmen to seniors, everyone has a mutual respect for one another,” he said. That culture of accountability, where everyone will be held accountable for mistakes, even at the coaching level, has translated directly into better performance and improved results on the field.
Looking ahead, the team remains focused on both short-term success and long-term growth. “I’ve got four separate goals: wins, increase in numbers, development of players, and a personal matter,” Coach Shafer said.
Key upcoming matchups include games against Suffield Academy, The Hopkins School, Cheshire Academy, and our rival, Hamden Hall. Beyond wins, the program is working to grow. “The true goal is to encourage more players to join lacrosse…and even develop a JV program,” Coach Shafer said. For him, the season is also deeply personal. “This season and coaching here truly means a lot to me…seeing the direct results of a change in coaching is amazing and heartwarming,” Coach Shafer shared. With momentum building, he has high hopes. “I think we can keep on winning, while hoping for some packed crowds for our final home games.”
