You know what I’ve been thinking? Jake Vana of St. John’s Prep better have a large trophy room one day.
Among other end-of-season awards, the six-time state champion in lacrosse, ice hockey, and soccer received, arguably, his biggest one yet last Wednesday, June 5 – that being the Moynihan Lumber North Shore Student-Athlete of the Year award.
“I’m so grateful, so honored to receive such an award,” Vana said. “Thank you to the Moynihans. It’s so wonderful and I’m so honored. Thank you to everyone.”
The lacrosse star jumped straight into competition after that – quite literally, leaving the Moynihan luncheon early to suit up for a 2:30 p.m. game against Natick in the Division 1 Sweet 16.
The Prep won that game, 16-2, before defeating Franklin in the Elite 8 two days later, 17-3. Coach John Pynchon said Vana has learned to “lead by example.”
But Tuesday, in a 6-4 win against BC High in the Final 4, Vana meant business. He scored three goals to punch Prep’s ticket to the state championship.
“It means I’m doing something right,” Vana joked about BC’s defense being focused on him. “I’m a senior. This could be my last game. So, whatever I do, I’m going to do it… if I go down, I’m going down swinging.”
Now, Friday. The top-ranked Eagles head to Burlington High School to take on No. 7 Needham at 6 p.m. in search of their fourth consecutive state title.
Jake, good week.
