Starting something where there has been nothing before is a particularly difficult task, but the lacrosse men are making a valiant effort. The wind hasn’t weakened in their sails. Even after three big losses in the past week, the team continues optimistically driving on.

The season opener against Michigan State proved to be a strange one as the men combined with Saginaw Valley and Northwood to compete against the Division I Spartans.

The combination of players set a tone of confusion amongst both teams, but Aquinas was well represented on the defensive end with a stellar performance by junior Nick Advent in goal and Lucio Mejia at long stick middy.

Senior co-captain Brad Vandenbrock said, “Nick and Lucio played the best of all of the players on the field.”

The night ended with a 19-3 loss, but the players looked at it as a step toward progress and began preparation for their home opener against Grand Valley State, ranked sixth in the nation.

“We knew MSU was going to be a tough game,” said sophomore Andrew Balog.

“But it was a great way to prep for Grand Valley, an even better club.”

Students flocked in large numbers to stands and along the fence bordering the field on Thursday night.
The Saints battled relentlessly against the Lakers. Fans raved as the players jousted, whacked and tackled each other up and down the field.

Players were driven by the fan support, playing their best game yet.

“We were pretty psyched by the fans,” said Raul Mariscal.

“They really influenced our passion and fight.”

Again, the game ended in favor of the opponent, but Laker players applauded the Saints for their performance.

“It was pretty cool when the GVSU coach commended our playing and professionalism,” said senior Mike Battaglia, co-captain for the Saints.

Saturday brought hope for the Saints as they showed great progress in their performance against University of Michigan-Dearborn.

The first half was tainted by some confusion about how to handle the opponent’s defense, but after a halftime huddle discussion, the Saint minds were clear in their mission.

Numerous penalties ended up hurting the Saints and calling the game in favor of the opponent, but team leaders were proud and confident for the next chance on the field.

“We played well, but Friday against Northwood will be a much different story,” said Battaglia.

Despite all of the losses, players remain passionate, bringing more than just talent to the game.

“Scores only tell half of the story,” said Vandenbrock.

“We may not have the most talented athletes, but when we play, our players bring passion to the field. A passion that most teams of lacrosse aren’t used to anymore.”

The Saints will battle it out again on Friday, at Northwood.