“Flowtastic,” “Dirty,” “Top Cheese,” are just a few of the sacred words and phrases used to describe this year’s varsity lacrosse team at Father Gabriel Richard.

Gabriel Richard may be relatively new to the sport of lacrosse, but this does not show on the field, as the program looks and plays like it has been around for years. This year, the team’s expectations are higher than ever. Matt Kolevar, senior, has been FGR’s leading goal-scorer since his sophomore year and had this to say about what the team demands of itself, “First, we’ll win Catholic Leagues, then we’re going to get to States, go big or go home!” The team’s fans are also looking forward to the upcoming season. Mike Yocum, senior and avid lacrosse supporter, said that, “We expect a very successful season and as they pile up the wins, I think they will also attract more fans. Personally, I would be willing to paint my body.”

Gabriel Richard does, however, have a lot of change to get used to. There is a new coaching staff, consisting of former assistant coach, Jim Carl, and newcomer, Jim Miller. They will also have to deal with the loss of a few of last year’s key players to graduation, but the current squad still has their confidence. “We lost a lot of seniors and our starting goalie last year, but we still have a lot of scorers left and Ramos has potential in the net,” Kolevar said.

Another, more positive change is in the teams equipment and apparel. Varsity was finally outfitted with new, badly needed jerseys and the team is responding well to them. “Our new jerseys are pretty sick and they are a big upgrade, plus with players getting new helmets and rocking the mid-calf socks, our team will have some serious swag,” said Kolevar.

Lacrosse, much like in hockey, has developed a language and terminology specific to the sport. For example, “Flow” is wavy, lustrous hair, which would flow out of the back and sides of one’s helmet. “Top Cheese,” refers to the act of shooting and scoring in the upper area of the net. For other expressions and terms, consult your local FGR Lax Bro.

Founded in 2003, the lacrosse program has grown in leaps and bounds at Gabriel Richard. As a team, they have improved each year in both skill and wins. Their fan base is also growing, as the team receives more recognition. Lacrosse is expected to continue to earn respect both within and outside of FGR.