By: Victoria Williamson | Sports Editor
LYNCHBURG, Va. – While rankings and preseason accolades are flooding the University of Lynchburg men’s lacrosse program, Head Coach Steve Koudelka and his team keep their eyes focused on the numbers they want to see on the scoreboard at the end of May.
Being ranked No. 12 in the nation by USA Lacrosse Magazine, the Hornets are already living up to their recognition. Following a successful preseason scrimmage against Mary Washington and a 15-11 season-opening win over St. Mary’s last Saturday, Lynchburg continues to excel.
“I do not think ranking impacts the locker room at all. We have our own expectations of winning the ODAC and the National Championship. Outside rankings carry little weight,” said Koudelka.
Junior midfielder Liam Holman and senior attacker Riley Hastings were both recognized by USA Lacrosse Magazine’s preseason poll, Holman being named third team All-American and Hastings receiving an honorable mention. For Hastings, the personal recognition is secondary to the team’s ultimate goal.
“The expectation to perform is the same if I was recognized or not…being a senior is more of a motivator to show up and be great every day,” said Hastings.
Holman echoed that statement, emphasizing the team’s selfless philosophy.
“We have taken on a ‘⅙ mentality’ as an offense, when we score, all six players on the field made a contribution. It proves we all want one common goal,” said Holman.
While the Hornets are focused on their day-to-day improvement, the schedule ahead is difficult. Lynchburg will need to maintain this determined, cooperative mindset as they face some of the top programs at the Callum Robinson Mustang Classic in March, including matchups against Christopher Newport and Gettysburg.
For more information, visit the Official Lynchburg Sports Network.