PCHS Bulletin – Paige Harlow
Date Published - May 5, 2026
The boys lacrosse team has concluded their first official competition season. With a roster full of athletes learning how to play as a team, a coaching staff building a culture and sense of unity for the team, and a schedule packed with experienced opponents, this season was less about the scoreboard and more about establishing an identity.
The team finished the year with a 2–10 record, but the numbers only tell a fraction of their overall season. Their first win came early in the season, a 13–6 victory over St. Petersburg Catholic on February 17. It was the moment the players realized they weren’t just a “first-year team” but rather competitors.
Their second win was even more meaningful. On April 8, they shut out Durant 13–0 in a play‑in game, earning a spot in the district playoffs in their inaugural season. For a brand new program, that achievement alone speaks volumes.
The playoff run ended against Manatee in the district quarterfinals, but by then, the team had already accomplished something bigger than a postseason push. They had built the foundation of a program that didn’t exist a year ago.
What made this season special wasn’t just the milestones, it was the dynamics of the team. Many of these players had never played lacrosse with each other, and for some this was their first time playing the game. They learned the game at the same time they were learning each other’s strengths, habits, and personalities. Every practice was a lesson, and every game was a test. Throughout the season, between games and practice, growth was a common theme.
Head Coach Oz and Assistant Coach Collet emphasized development over perfection, and the players bought in. They learned to trust each other, communicate, and play as a unit. By the end of the season, they weren’t just teammates, they were a team.
For the seniors, this year meant leaving a legacy. They were the first to wear the jerseys, the first to score the goals, the first to represent the school in a sport that will only grow from here. Their leadership set the tone for the program’s future.
For the underclassmen, the mission is clear: build on what was started. The team looks forward to next year. More wins, more experience, more confidence, and a deeper understanding of the game. With a full offseason ahead of them, the team is ready to prepare for the 2027 season.
This season wasn’t defined by the record. It was defined by resilience, progress, and pride. The boy's lacrosse team didn’t just compete; they created something new. And for a first‑year program, that’s the biggest victory of all.