Behind new coach and experienced roster, Mount Vernon boys lax looks to bounce back

Mount Vernon senior goalie Shaine Ryan. (Carlos Chavez photo)

Lacrosse is often overlooked at Mount Vernon, as soccer is the more popular sport during the spring. But with a new head coach and lots of veteran players returning, the boys lacrosse program is looking to get some new fans and get back on track after a tough 2016 season.

The new coaching staff, headed by Geoffrey Young, has brought new energy to the team.

“I like him,” said senior Shaine Ryan, a returning varsity goalie. “He’s bringing a lot of initiative to the team, making us motivated and stronger.”

New Mount Vernon boys lacrosse coach Geoffrey Young (Carlos Chavez photo)

Since taking over, Young has pushed to bring new equipment to the team, as last year’s equipment had been worn out. He also mentors the players one-on-one, establishing a connection with each player.

“Making these connections is important to me,” said Young, who has previously been a head coach at Falls Church. “It helps establish trust, security, and helps bring the team together.”

Although Mount Vernon was 3-8 last season — the school’s first year playing in the 6A Patriot Conference — the Majors finished strong and look to build off that experience. After an 0-6 start, Mount Vernon pulled off an upset victory against rival West Potomac. The emotional 12-11 win set the tone as the Majors won three of their last five contests.

Young has high expectations of his roster, which includes 12 seniors. As the Majors start the season on the road Tuesday night at Edison, both players and coaches feel the program is headed in the right direction.

“Change is in the air,” Young said. “I can feel it coming.”

Players also hope that, with improvement, they can get a few more fans out to the games and feed off that support. 

“Popularity, in my opinion, does not matter,” said senior defender Ian Hinojosa, who is returning to the team. “However, I think more people should come out to the games. The crowd helps propel the team with energy and I think we could use that to our advantage.”