2011 captains:
Blair Berg, Justin Rees, Tyler Tutewohl-Klotz, and Charlie Weierke
From a won-lost perspective last year's first-ever boys lacrosse season was a tough one for coach Paul Sorenson and his team. The Tigers went winless in 13 starts and suffered some major growing pains in the process.
But this spring provides a new staring point and after a week-plus of practice, Sorenson believes things will be different in 2011.
"With no wins from last season, I'm sure we'll be considered a bit of a dark horse," he said. "But we are stronger, faster and mentally tougher than we were a year ago.
"Last year mental mistakes and costly penalties put us in too many down-man situations. If we can eliminate those mistakes and penalties we'll be just fine. I can't wait for the first face-off."
One of the reasons for Sorenson's bright outlook is the return of 15 letterwinners from last year's inaugural team.
Returnees include seniors Quinn Malcolm (midfielder), Tyler Tutewhol-Klotz (defense), Kyle Jensen (long stick midfielder), Blair Berg (defense), Justin Rees (midfielder) and Ian Eich (attacker); juniors Mitch Collier (attacker); Trevor Howard (attacker), Matt Ackerman (midfielder), Charlie Weireke (goalie), Alex Rojesky (midfield) and Marques Woods (attacker); and sophomores Matt Heinzerling-Weise (goalie/midfielder), Jake Bauman (midfielder) and Joey Todd (attacker).
Newcomers expected to compete for varsity playing time this spring include senior Luke Brevik (midfielder); juniors Jake Mendala (attacker) and sophomores Carter Daigle (defense) and Nathan Brunelle (defense).
Howard was the leading point-getter fo the Tigers last spring with 13. Collier finsihed with 11, Malcolm nine, Rees eight and Ackerman seven.
"We have a crop of athletic freshmen who look to compete as well," Sorenson said.
Sorenson said that balance and experience should be two his team's primary strengths.
"A question mark might be on defense," he said. "We'll need to stay healthy there."
The Tiger coach offered he doesn't want to measure success in season two solely on wins and losses.
"It will be a successful season if each individual grows in each of the key areas: stickwork, footwork and mental toughness," he said. "And, of course, we want all of our players to finish strong in the classroom."
Drew Malcolm will serve as Sorenson's varsity assistant with two volunteers, Justin Hauge and Mike Fox, also helping with the coaching duties.
The Tigers open their 2011 season Monday, Apr. 11, with a home contest against Lakeville South.
