Author: Sant Kumar
The Men’s Lacrosse team ended the regular season with a couple of dramatic games that have them in a three way tie for second place in the conference. Though the team lost its last two games, they will most likely advance to the playoffs.
The Tigers first lost against UCSD 14-6 on April 2. UCSD is the best team in the conference, with a record of 5-0 in conference play and 9-4 overall. Despite their opponent’s intimidating record, the players put on a strong overall performance as both Michael Berman (junior) and Taylor Lehmann (junior) scored two goals each.
After UCSD, the team played Biola on April 9. Because this game would determine who would advance to playoffs, the Tigers played with high intensity. Occidental was led by Shane Cumings (junior), Kevin Witkow (sophomore) and Mike Dodson (sophomore). Despite the six goals these players scored, the team lost to Biola 10-9.
Though the team lost, the players were proud of their effort in a game with such high stakes.
“Biola was a heartbreaker, [but] we played our butts off and we ended up one goal short in the last minute. It was the best game I’ve ever played in and still lost,” TJ Kelly (sophomore) said.
Even after the loss the team has remained united and goal-oriented, believing that they can compete with any team in the playoffs, including UCSD. Kelly attributes this attitude to the team’s captains.
“Our team has been positive despite the recent losses and that is due to the leadership on and off the field by our captains Mike Berman, Brian Cropper (sophomore), Wes Goodman-Levy (junior) and Marc Patrick (sophomore). They know how to pump up the team, and we’ll be looking for their leadership in the post season,” Kelly said.
According to Goodman-Levy, one reason for the team’s success during the regular season has been the play of Kelly, the team’s goalie. Kelly is second in the nation for Division II goaltenders for save percentage.
“TJ Kelly has definitely been our rock this year. Being one of the highest save percentage goalies in the nation is only a testament to the talent he has brought to the position,” Goodman-Levy said.
Another reason for the team’s overall dominance on the field is the improved team chemistry since the beginning of the season.
“As the season has progressed, our team has come together and learned how to play with each other. We know what each person will do on the field because we’ve played together this season and that makes us a better team,” Kelly said.
Though the team is in a three-way tie for second place, it will most likely advance to the playoffs as a result of its goal differential versus Biola and Pepperdine. The team’s current focus is on the playoffs. According to Goodman-Levy, if the team wins its semi-final round in Los Angeles, then it will travel to Tucson, where it play either Cal State Fullerton or UCSD.
The team can next be seen on April 23 when they will play UC Irvine at home.
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