If you haven’t noticed already, the Beacons lacrosse team has been practicing outside on the frozen tundra near UMB’s entrance. Coming off their first losing season in the past 11 seasons, the coach and the team are ready to bounce back and stir up some trouble for the Little East Conference.

“We have a very strong defense and good goalies this season. We’re a bit young and inexperienced in the attack and middle field” said coach Myles Berry. The team lost a few key players this season, including the New England Division III Player of the Year, a three time all star on defense, a goalie who transferred to UMass Amherst, and a couple other key offensive players.

Berry nevertheless sees the team as a contender this season and predicts that as the season progresses the team will grow and develop more and more. “We have a great group of guys here and that’s the most important thing. They’re working hard.”

The team plays in a tough division, facing teams like Eastern Connecticut, who has won the division ever year since the their program has been in existence. Berry also noted that Keene State has a good program and Western Connecticut just hired the old Eastern Connecticut coach. The main goal of the Beacons this season is getting into the playoffs.

The coach also has a message for the students at UMB. “I know that there are lacrosse players here at UMass that could help us. We have some openings in the squad and if anyone wants to play for us, please contact me and we’ll talk.” Coach Berry can be reached on campus by phone at 617-287-7822 or by e-mail at [email protected].