Beaver Area High School sophomore lacrosse player Jack O’Leary is working through the rough start of the season as the team is currently looking at a 0-2 record.

O’Leary plays midfield and attack and has been playing lacrosse for three years. He is becoming a very important part of the offense.

Thinking back to the first game March 10 against Avonworth, O’Leary said the team struggled, even though he felt he had a great performance.

“Our first game went really badly, but I felt like I did what I could since I scored two goals and had two assists,” said O’Leary.

Even with the losses, he said one part of the game still stands out to him.

“My favorite moment so far this season has just been scoring and helping out on offense,” he said.

The team practices every day and sticks to a consistent schedule.

“We practice every day except Sunday, and we start with warmups, then go to passing, then shooting, and then contact. This practice lasts about two hours,” O’Leary said.

He explained that the team spends a lot of time working on the basics since lacrosse is still a new sport for Beaver Area.

“[Coach Mike Courteau] focuses on stick skills because that’s what helps everything else,” he said.

O’Leary also said the coach keeps the team going even after their losses.

“Our coach keeps us motivated with encouragement and speeches,” he said.

One lesson in particular has stuck with him so far.

“He’s taught us that it’s important to never give up,” O’Leary said.

Looking ahead, O’Leary has goals for himself as the season goes on.

“My goal for the rest of the season is to score the most goals on the team and keep getting better,” he said.

He also explains what he thinks the team needs to work on.

“I think we will get better at decision making in games, but we really need to work on catching and throwing the dang ball!” O’Leary explained.

The team’s next game is tomorrow against Thomas Jefferson at home, and O’Leary hopes the hard work in practice will help the team get their first win.