February 13, 2024
Season Preview: MLAX Aims to Take Another Leap
By Francisco Claudio
During their first year, the Westcliff men's lacrosse team focused on building a strong foundation and cultivating a core group of skilled players who could represent the Westcliff 5C's both on the field and in the classroom.
Year one was a success out on the field as the team finished undefeated 5-0.
A couple of months later, the Warriors became members of the Men's Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) and entered the Southwestern Lacrosse Conference (SLC).
Now they're slated for a schedule that allows them to have preseason and compete in conference games leading up to a conference title and even nationals.
Head Coach Mike Song has spearheaded this movement and worked tirelessly to build it from the ground up. Song shared that he was proud of the team dynamic entering this year.
"For a startup program, defining our identity is critical and very challenging, but this team's no-nonsense core is persistent, and they are consistent with their goals to achieve the competitive culture we all came here to build."
Going into their second year, Song aims to continue their success on the field and extend that to their academic performance.
In the most recent grade releases, the men's lacrosse team significantly improved their GPA and is now hovering around the 3.0 range.
"A winning season is the bare minimum," Song said. "3.0+ team GPA for the academic year, continuing from our 3.01 team average from Fall Session 1. This is a huge jump from our 1.57 average last year."
But there's plenty more to look forward to as the Warriors brought in some talented new athletes who will look to make an instant impact.
"Colby Allen is a freshman who is making an immediate impact, and I look forward to seeing him grow this season," Song said. "He will no doubt be a leading scorer early in his college career."
Song also brought in an all-star who has played at a Division I school and represented the Jamaican National team.
"Antoine Campbell is a graduate transfer from Stony Brook and a Jamaican National Team member," Song said. "Antoine will cover a lot of ground on defense."
Additionally, they have returning leaders who continue to improve and set an example by working hard on their craft.
"Avery Fye brings great experience as a transfer and former marine," Song said. "Tyrese Findlay is a vocal leader and demonstrates diligence like no other. Both lead by example."
The Warriors have nine games scheduled for their 2024 season.
Their first game and only nonconference opponent will be against Moorpark College, on the road.
The remaining conference games include Arizona Christian, Claremont College, UCI, CSU Fullerton, San Jose State, St. Mary's College of California, Biola, and the University of Arizona.
Westcliff will be competing against many of these schools for the first time as the newest member of the SLC.
However, this team exudes confidence, evident from the substantial amount of work they put in during the offseason.
"Character and culture," Song said. "We are continuing to define ourselves, and in doing so, we are making it clear what will not work in this program and what our expectations are.
"In doing so, we see our discipline, on-field performance, and academics meeting our program's standards."
This upcoming season, the Warriors aim to continue their upward trajectory, making it one to keep an eye on.
Their first game will be this Saturday, February 17th at Moorpark College.
The home opener will be on Saturday, March 2nd, with a start time of 1:00 p.m.
All home games for men's lacrosse will be held at Portola High School stadium.
To stay updated with all their endeavors this season, follow them on Instagram: westcliffu_mlax