As the Loomis Chaffee Boys Varsity Lacrosse team approaches the end of an immensely successful season, they’ve proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with. With a record of 14-1, the team has become a major threat to other national-level teams, with notable victories over traditional powerhouses like Brunswick and Malvern Prep. Their record reflects the drive, unity, dedication, and talent behind this year’s team. 

Throughout the spring, the Pelicans, led by several key players, have demonstrated their dominance on both ends of the field, outscoring opponents with aggressive, fast-paced offense and limiting goals with a lockdown defensive squad. The seniors have also been dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy and inspiring younger teammates. “I’m looking forward to learning to step up as a role model for the younger kids,” commented Ben Halpert ’26, a rising senior.

Team chemistry has been another key factor in the Pelicans’ success. Whether it’s during high-pressure moments on game day or putting in the hard work during every practice, the strength of their bond is evident.  

“This final season has been everything. It has been a chance to lead, to grow, and to finish strong with a group of guys that I consider family,” senior goalie Liam O’Keefe described. “Living with my best friends and trying to bring Loomis another Founders League Championship or even NE West I Title has been amazing,” 

Liam highlights the strength of the bond the team has built throughout the season, a bond that extends far beyond the field. Their shared commitment, hard work ethic, and mutual respect have shaped not only a successful lacrosse season but also a brotherhood that will last long after graduation. O’Keefe also spoke of the teams core values and his hopes of leaving a legacy. He shared “[I hope to] give the team my everything, hold others accountable, and put the team first both on and off the field.”

While the seniors leave, current freshmen and sophomores are learning to step into leadership roles, taking advice and leadership skills from prior teammates. Hayes Griffin ’27, who has valued his time on the team, explained, “I learned to never take a day for granted…, to always give your best at all times, and never take a rep off because there are always people wishing to be in the circumstance that you are in.”

As an underclassman, he states he has “worked hard to manage to get playing time this year and [he is] looking to improve upon that and start for our team next year. With Griffin’s work ethic and desire to be a leader, he, alongside his peers, will step into various leadership positions and continue to lead the team to victory. 

This successful team is built from each individual player, all of whom possess unmatchable dedication, as well as the connections they have built within their team. With their talents and strong leadership, this team is destined to continue to succeed and develop leaders along the way.