Will Varsity Lacrosse Live up to Expectations?

Kian Moyer, Staff Writer • February 17, 2026

Junior Trip Gettler sets up his dodge. Gettler provided great passing from the X postion and was able to score himself in the 2nd half.

In recent years, the Raiders Varsity Lacrosse Team has often been recognized as one of the best teams not only in the region but in all of Florida. The team is currently ranked 12th in the Florida Class 1A division and 22nd overall in Florida. The Raiders have reached the regional playoffs in the past three years and are hoping to build on their success in the upcoming season.

In their season opener, they won 17–2 with strong offensive and defensive performances against Palmetto. Players like junior attackman Lucas Albert had seven goals, and junior midfielder Evan Vineberg had four. Not only that, but the defense put up a strong battle, allowing only two goals and successfully clearing the ball upfield, which was a struggle at times last year. This marks an impressive start to what they hope will be a successful season.

“What went well for us in the game was the fact that we did not let our foot off the gas. We were aggressive on offense, scoring on almost every possession while holding them to only two goals, which were given up by careless mistakes. I think to improve and be successful in our season, we need to improve on our chemistry, controlling the ball well on offense and defense, and improve on our physicality,” junior midfielder Evan Vineberg said.

Junior Midfielder Evan Vineberg breaks off from his defender. Vineberg scored four goals, helping the Raiders win. (Chase Samole)

Now moving to the defensive side of the ball, the Raiders played a strong game, rarely making mistakes and working collectively to get stops and clear the ball upfield. The Raiders added a new defensive coach to their system, and it will be interesting to see how that changes the team. The defense moved exceptionally well as a unit and communicated effectively.

“I think overall we just need more effort. Two main takeaways I have for this game are that we need to improve our effort and communication,” sophomore defenseman Christopher Allen said.

One of the most important, yet often unseen, parts of lacrosse is face-offs. They are a vital part of the game, and sophomore face-off specialist Troy Rohr excelled in that role. The offense was dominant because Rohr consistently won face-offs and maintained possession for the Raiders. Rohr won all of his face-offs except for one and was named the player of the game.

“For me, winning face-offs is the best feeling in lacrosse because it means fewer opportunities for the other team to score. But mainly, I feel like we need to focus on the little things, like being in the right place at the right time and remembering the new plays and concepts our coaches are cycling in weekly,” sophomore Troy Rohr said.

The Raiders are off to a hot start, and time will tell if they can build on their success from last season.

About the Contributors

Kian Moyer, Staff Writer

Kian Moyer is a sophomore and staff writer for the “Raider Voice.” This is his first year on staff, and Kian is excited to contribute his love of sports, and his writing and photography skills to the team this year. Outside of school, Kian loves to play and watch both football and golf.

Chase Samole, Editor-In-Chief

Chase Samole is a junior and Editor-In-Chief for “The Raider Voice.” With three years of experience contributing to the newspaper, Chase is looking forward to taking on the challenge of leading the staff this year. Outside of “The Raider Voice,” Chase is also a part of the International Politics Program and is co-President of Chapman Partnership for the Homeless’s L.I.V.E. initiative. Outside of school, Chase enjoys playing sports and spending time with friends.