After two convincing wins over Reservoir and Tuscarora High School, the boys lacrosse team looks to maintain the momentum, and finish the season strong heading into the regional playoffs. The Bears overall have been a successful team, going 6-2 in their conference and 6-3 overall.
Oakdale kicked off their season with high expectations. Last year, the Bears were a very successful team overall, as they won a Regional Championship and had a chance at the state quarterfinals.
“Last year, we were all happy with the way the season went, even though we had a heartbreaking loss at the end. If we can work as a team and all play our best, then we can definitely have a different outcome this season,” shared senior defenseman Liam Burke.
The team this year has had contributors from every position, as they look to repeat as regional champions.
In a tough conference surrounded by very strong teams, the Bears have shown resilience and fight, as they have fierce competition, having to compete against a physical 5-0 Urbana team and a 6-1 Linganore squad to potentially make it to the postseason and become labeled as an elite team in the Maryland high school lacrosse rankings.
The team faced off against their rivals, Linganore, in early April for a conference game that would ultimately shape the standings, in a tough division. The Bears played a tough game against the Lancers, but ultimately lost 8-5, to drop their record to 3-3 as of April 11th.
With three remaining games left in the Bears regular season, they take on Liberty at home and Manchester Valley on the road, and finish with Middletown. The Bears attempt to ride their win streak into the playoffs and keep the momentum.
“The upcoming senior night on Friday will eventually be our favorite game of the season,” senior goalie Avery Linthicum added when asked about his favorite game played this season. The Bears this year have 13 seniors on the team, by far the most in recent memory.
“The goals to winning crucial games will be communication and working together as a team. We feel like we’re playing with more confidence this year,” stated Linthicum speaking on what is needed to succeed and make a run for the playoffs.
The Oakdale Bears varsity lacrosse team exemplifies dedication, teamwork, and resilience. As they continue to strive for excellence, their journey is one to remember, and one that will put Oakdale in conversations with some of the elite teams in Frederick County.
