Greg Rittler

#10 is the new long pole defender above

This weekend was Aloha Tournaments Laxsplash lacrosse event. It marks the end of the Kelly Post Midget A season that Josh participated in. It was Josh’s first year as a long pole and he really enjoyed playing some close defense and some long pole middie.

As seasons go it was a great one. The boys won some, and they lost some. Played some really terrific teams, and played some not so terrific teams. But all in all it was a great time for the boys.

Lacrosse is never an individual sport. That truth is one of many that makes it so appealing to me. Every player matters in every position, everywhere. There is no “stick ‘em in right field” in lacrosse. Every player has to be on their game and working as hard as they can all the time for the team to succeed.

We had some rough games where we really needed to get our butts kicked. But we also had some amazing games where everyone was on 100%.  The team jelled over the course of the season.

A team is never just the players. One of the most impressive things about our team, players, coaches, and parents alike, was the level of sportsmanship displayed by all. Our players were great and gracious sportsmen. Our coaches were respectful of the officials while challenging them when needed. They  instructed our kids positively. They communicated clearly with parents. Our parents were supportive fans. We never had any inappropriate parents screaming at officials, players or other coaches (although we saw plenty).

From Josh’s perspective he learned a new position, developed some great new skills, and became a real contributor to the team over the course of the season. What more could a parent want?

Many thanks to our coaches, Vince Bagli, Rob Black, and Bill Lansinger for a great season!

Keep moving forward,

Greg