Evergreen High School boys lacrosse sees growing popularity and success
EVERGREEN, Colo. — Many consider lacrosse to be 鈥渢he fastest game on two feet鈥� and according to several resources including the Professional Box Lacrosse Association (PBLA), it is also the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Comparative accessibility and safety for players, intense action, and affordability has made lacrosse a popular choice for youth athletes in recent years, as evidenced by Evergreen High School鈥檚 flourishing boys lacrosse team. Rooted in the Mountain Lacrosse League recreation program that serves Evergreen, Conifer, Bailey, Pine and Clear Creek, many of the players on the Evergreen High School Cougar team started playing long before entering high school.
鈥淥ur recent state playoff success is attributed to the dedication and commitment at the youth level in Evergreen,鈥� notes Tania Dunham, vice president of fundraising for the Evergreen High School Boys Lacrosse Booster Club. 鈥淥ur team is committed to expanding our student and community engagement by creating an exciting atmosphere with food trucks, merchandise, concessions and sponsor participation. We invite Evergreen Living readers to come cheer on the Cougars!鈥�
The Evergreen High School boys lacrosse team is currently coached by Mark Stapor and assistant coaches Andrew Mattivi, Taylor Jackson, Conner Miller, Jeff Fairbanks and Chris Dries. We caught up with Coach Stapor to talk about the team鈥檚 goals and accomplishments so far.
What are the team鈥檚 goals for the current or upcoming season?
Mark Stapor: Our goal is the same every year 鈥� to win a 4A state championship!
Who are the team’s captains or leaders? What makes them a vital part of the team’s success?
Stapor: Wes Sailor, Quinn York and Jace Evans. These three players are the heart and soul of our defense. Defense wins championships. With their attitudes and perspectives towards leadership and the game itself, they motivate each other and their teammates to perform at the highest level.
How does the lacrosse team welcome new members?
Stapor: We announce them in front of the rest of the team and welcome them with open arms. After that, our players make sure to introduce themselves and get to know the newcomers.
Does the team have any pregame rituals or traditions?
Stapor: We always have a pregame locker room breakdown.
How does the team like to celebrate?
Stapor: Usually with a locker room dance party!
Has the team (or any individuals) broken any records recently?
Stapor: Last season, Leo Kailus 鈥� who is a senior this year 鈥� had 84 total points (46 goals and 38 assists). This is an Evergreen High School record.
What has motivated the team to reach their goals this season?
Stapor: Losing in the state playoff semi-final last year motivates us to keep improving our performance this year.
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