The Marblehead Magicians had a solid year in 2014, finishing with a 13-8 record and making it to the Division 2 North boys? lacrosse finals. But they couldn?t close the deal against their division rival Beverly, and bowed out after a 12-7 loss.
?They just played a complete game and we did not,” said Marblehead coach John Wilkens.
This year, Wilkens has a team that has all the tools to get right back to the title game. With all three captains returning this spring as seniors, the Magicians have plenty of veteran leadership.
That leadership is spread all over the field, starting with Nathan Maselek in goal. Brooks Tyrrell, who is committed to play at Notre Dame, is another captain and a force in the midfield for Marblehead. On the back end is the third captain, defenseman Tommy Gabel.
?We have a nice core group of guys this year,” said Wilkens, now in his 14th season as head coach. “We lost some depth on attack, but we have some guys that can step up and make a difference.”
Marblehead also graduated two defensemen last year, leaving the back end inexperienced except for Gabel.
Wilkens knows the Magicians need something to push them over the edge.
?We?re looking for someone who maybe wasn?t on the radar to really step up this year,” he said. “But we?re still evaluating so I?m not sure who that could be yet.”
He also made the point that he wants his team to be more mentally tough than last year, something his three senior captains will have to provide.
Like most other teams, the Magicians have been stuck in the gym while they wait for their field to thaw. They have been working out indoors for the time being, but with their first game scheduled Monday at Westford Academy, the players need to get on the field.
?The guys are dying to get outside,” Wilkens said. “But we have a lot of veteran guys who are used to things like this. The attitude among them has been mainly positive so far.”Mike Alongi can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @m_alongi.
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