Will Cherry Creek Lacrosse Dominate in 2023. The Epic Journey of Colorado’s Premier Prep Powerhouse

Will Cherry Creek Lacrosse Dominate in 2023. The Epic Journey of Colorado’s Premier Prep Powerhouse

History of Cherry Creek Lacrosse Program

Can you believe it’s already that time of year again when the chilled winter air starts giving way to the warmth of spring, and lacrosse sticks come out of hibernation? As a longtime local, I’ve had the pleasure of watching the Cherry Creek High School lacrosse program grow from a fledgling squad into a perennial powerhouse over the past couple decades. This team has cemented itself as the cream of the crop in Colorado high school lacrosse, having brought home 12 state championships since 2001. Their sustained success is a testament to the program’s leadership, dedication to development, and ability to reloaded with blue-chip talent year after year.

Cherry Creek first established its boys lacrosse program in 1994, though it took some time to gain traction. After failing to qualify for the playoffs in their initial seasons, the Bruins broke through with their first postseason berth in 1998. While they suffered some early exits, that first taste of the playoffs seemed to spark something. The program started to turn the corner in the early 2000s, capturing their first state championship under coach Jeff Fry in 2001. This opened the floodgates, with the Bruins adding two more titles later that decade in 2006 and 2009.

However, it was in the 2010s that Cherry Creek lacrosse trulyhit its stride. The program ratcheted up the dominance, spearheaded by legendary coach Brian Ayers who took over in 2011. Coach Ayers implemented more rigorous off-season training, skill development, and recruiting reach – taking an already strong program and amplifying its success. With Ayers at the helm, the Bruins have been practically unstoppable, rattling off an incredible nine state titles in the past 12 seasons. Some may grumble that this level of continued dominance kills competition, but you can’t argue with that kind of unprecedented results.

Cherry Creek has become the gold standard that the rest of Colorado tries to reach. They’ve achieved this through consistently stellar coaching, player development, and recruiting. Coach Ayers has built an atmosphere of winning expectations, while also allowing talented players room to shine. Plenty of standout players have risen through the ranks, including several who went on to play NCAA lacrosse and a few in the pro leagues. The program’s sustained success and reputation for getting players to the next level is self-reinforcing – drawing more elite talent to their roster every year. Other teams simply can’t match their depth of talent across the field.

With this dominant history as context, all signs point to another potential title run for the Bruins in 2023. While I don’t have a crystal ball, I’d peg them as probable favorites based on the ridiculous collection of talent they’ve assembled. Let’s take a closer look at why this could be another special season for the Cherry Creek lacrosse program.

Key Players to Watch This Season

A championship caliber team needs game-changers across the field, and Cherry Creek definitely has that. In the net, senior goalkeeper Ethan Sax has already committed to play at Johns Hopkins after graduation. He posted a 68% save percentage last season, and his quick reflexes and aggressiveness make him a force between the pipes.

Leading the charge on offense will be senior attackman Luke Abbott, an All-American commit to Virginia. Luke torched opposing defenses for 42 goals last season, possessing elite shooting accuracy and on-ball playmaking skills. He and Sax will provide senior leadership for the talented squad.

The Bruins will also look to junior midfielder Dylan Holston to be an offensive catalyst. Dylan canthread crisp passes through traffic, dodge past defenders, and finish shots in tight quarters. His field vision and IQ make the team hum. Defensively, sophomore LSM Aaron Sykes will shoulder a heavy load – tasked with locking down opponents’ top attacks after a promising freshman campaign.

Beyond the known standouts, Coach Ayers has plenty of depth to keep legs fresh. The Bruins will continue their aggressive substitution patterns, using their superior depth to wear teams down. Hungry young players will have opportunities to make names for themselves as contributors, keeping competition high at practice.

Toughest Opponents on 2023 Schedule

While the Bruins enter each season eyeing the state title, the road there is never easy. Their regular season schedule provides plenty of tests that should have them battle tested for the playoff grind. An early measuring stick will come against Kent Denver on March 7th, a perennial top-10 program. The Sun Devils gave Cherry Creek a scare in the quarterfinals last year, so this matchup could have playoff implications while also providing an assessment of any early chemistry issues. Their biggest rival Mullen always brings intensity. The Mustangs would love nothing more than to dethrone the kings, making their April 11th contest a must-watch. These heated matchups seem to bring out peak performance from both squads. Closing out the regular season against Regis Jesuit on May 4th should make for a competitive tune-up right before the win-or-go-home playoffs. The Raiders have flashed potential tohang with the state’s elite and would love to enter the postseason with some momentum by knocking off the Bruins. Circle that evening matchup on your calendar.

Goals and Expectations for 2023 Playoffs

While surprising upsets always remain a possibility, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where Cherry Creek doesn’t advance at least to the semifinals with eyes on another title. They simply have too much talent and experience not to be considered probable favorites. However, the coaching staff will still have them laser focused on details and preparation.

In the playoffs, the team’s overall depth and conditioning regimen pays dividends. They have the horses to go four lines deep at both poles and midfield, allowing them tocome in waves. Opponents often wilt in the second half, unable to keep up with the Bruins’ speed and relentless rides. Come fourth quarters, Coach Ayers skillfully rotates lineups to capitalize on tired defenders. This depth and conditioning could prove especially crucial if they reach the final weekend playing back-to-back games.

Of course, the Bruins have plenty of experience not overlooking any opponent after years of playoff battles. No matter the seeding, teams bring 100% effort in the win-or-go-home format. The seniors surely remember their early exit as favorites in the 2021 quarterfinals. They won’t allow overconfidence or distractions to deter their title focus.

While a championship is never guaranteed, I’d consider anything short of a finals appearance to be a disappointment given their stacked lineup. Come late May, don’t be surprised if the Cherry Creek community is flooded in navy and gold celebrating another men’s lacrosse state title – it’s certainly not a long shot prediction.

After over two decades of sustained dominance, the Cherry Creek High School lacrosse program sits on the cusp of further cementing its status as Colorado’s preeminent prep powerhouse. With a lineup bursting with elite talent, coaching pedigree, and depth across the board, the Bruins appear primed for another potential title run in 2023. Their championship DNA, development system, and influx of blue-chip prospects position Cherry Creek as probable favorites to continue their dominance. While upsets always remain possible, teams surely dread seeing those navy helmets on the opposing sideline. One thing is for certain – we’re in for an exciting spring of high-level lacrosse action as the Bruins chase down another piece of history. I’ll have my calendar cleared on Memorial Day weekend…just in case there’s some title game barbecue plans in my near future.

Notable Alumni Who Went Pro or NCAA Div 1

The sustained dominance of the Cherry Creek lacrosse program is evident when looking at the long list of elite alumni who have gone on to play at the highest levels. The coaching staff’s ability to develop talent and prepare players for the next level has pipeline a steady pipeline of Bruins succeeding in NCAA Division 1 lacrosse and professional leagues after graduation.

In the early years of the program, standouts like Greg Terrion (Notre Dame), Matt Bocklet (John Hopkins), and Mark Matthews (Denver) paved the way as the first Division 1 recruits. They set the foundation for future generations by proving Bruins could compete with the nation’s best. Greg even enjoyed a lengthy pro career in the NLL after college.

As the 2000s progressed, the alumni accomplishments increased exponentially. Ben Rubeor was a star midfielder for championship Virginia teams before becoming a pro legend with multiple NLL titles. Bryan Matz won a national title with Virginia as well, bringing a championship pedigree back to the high school program. Other notables like Paul Rabil (Johns Hopkins) and Brett Schmidt (Maryland) became All-Americans.

The 2010s saw the floodgates truly open in terms of producing D1 and pro talent. Some recent notables include:

– Shane Simpson – All-American midfielder at North Carolina

– Ethan Walker – Faceoff stud at Denver before NLL career

– Mike Riis – NCAA champion goalie at Maryland

– Charlie Hayes – Top scorer for prolific Denver teams

– Chris Hampton – Big Ten Champion midfielder at Penn State

– Tyson Bomberry – All-American attackman at Syracuse

– Jack Hannah – Starting midfielder for national semifinalist Notre Dame squads

The list goes on and on. When scanning college rosters and pro leagues, Cherry Creek grads regularly dot the landscape. The program has achieved the pinnacle of success at consistently developing top-tier talent year after year.

Many of these alumni return to the program as coaches, guest speakers, or evaluators – providing wisdom and inspiration to the next generations of Bruins stars. The combination of coaching continuity, development infrastructure, and tradition of excellence has created a self-sustaining machine. Based on the incoming recruiting classes, expect more Cherry Creek names to populate NCAA and NLL rosters in the years to come.

The Cherry Creek High School lacrosse excellence factory has churned out prolific D1 and professional talent for over two decades. Generations of elite alumni have blazed the trail for the current Bruins stars to follow. This esteemed fraternity of Cherry Creek lacrosse greats exemplifies the program’s developmental infrastructure and winning culture. Current players undoubtedly feel the legacy on their shoulders each time they don the navy helmets. The bar for sustained excellence has been set remarkably high thanks to the accolades of former Bruin legends. As dominant as the current Cherry Creek varsity squad appears, they still have work to do to cement their legacy alongside program greats. Knowing the competitive drive of Coach Ayers and the hungry young talent in the pipeline, more Bruin alums making waves in the lacrosse world feels inevitable.

Key Players to Watch This Season

The Cherry Creek lacrosse roster is overflowing with exciting talent that has fans eager to see this squad in action. While depth and team play are hallmarks of the program, a few individuals stand out as potential x-factors who could take the Bruins attack to another level. Here are some key players to watch heading into the 2023 season:

Leading the charge is senior midfielder Luke Abbott, an All-American committed to the University of Virginia. Luke is coming off a monster 42 goal season, where he showed the total offensive package of pinpoint shooting, slick feeds, and acrobatic dodges. He’s the centerpiece that makes their offense hum. Opponents design defensive gameplans around slowing down his prolific playmaking ability. If Luke continues dominating games this spring, he’ll cement his legacy as one of Colorado’s all-time greats.

Another senior leader to watch is goalie Ethan Sax, who’ll be patrolling the net for the Bruins before heading to Johns Hopkins. Ethan posted an impressive 68% save clip last season by tracking shots early and exploding into acrobatic saves. His aggressiveness leaves shooters rattled. With his quick reflexes and takeaway ability, Ethan provides a security blanket for the defense. If he continues his upward trajectory, anything opponents sneak by him will be well-earned.

While the seniors provide leadership, don’t sleep on ultra-skilled sophomore Aaron Sykes at long-stick midfield. Aaron earned heavy minutes as a freshman, flashing athleticism to shut down top offensive threats. The coaching staff loves his potential and raves about his work ethic. Look for him to take on an expanded lockdown role this spring as the defense’s backbone.

In the dodger role, junior midfielder Dylan Holston should provide some sizzle to complement the senior stability. Dylan possesses elite speed and change of direction ability, leaving ankles broken in his wake. He improved his shooting accuracy over the summer and could be primed for a goal-scoring breakout. Dylan’s field vision as a passer also allows him to initiate offense in transition.

While these standouts will draw attention, the Bruins’ depth is also full of talent itching for their chance to break out. Hungry young players will push for minutes, keeping competition fierce in practice. Roles still remain up for grabs. The cream tends to rise under the playoff pressure-cooker, so keep an eye out for underclassmen making names for themselves when it matters most. That’s the Cherry Creek way – prepare the next generation for their time to shine.

The Cherry Creek lacrosse program has assembled yet another loaded roster of elite talent capable of bringing home a title. From battle-tested seniors to rising stars, this group provides the perfect blend. While the team-first mentality remains paramount, a few game-changing individuals could take over at the right moments and propel the Bruins back to championship glory. Their opponents certainly know to keep a watchful eye on these difference-makers anytime they take the field.

Toughest Opponents on 2023 Schedule

While the Cherry Creek lacrosse team enters each season with lofty expectations, a treacherous schedule filled with landmines stands in the way of an undefeated record. They’ll be tested by a gauntlet of talented opponents aiming for the powerhouse Bruins’ throne. Here’s a look at some of the toughest matchups on the 2023 slate that could derail their championship ambitions if they hit snooze button.

An early measuring stick will come quickly when Kent Denver visits on March 7th. The Sun Devils are perennial top 10 contenders who came within a goal of stunning Cherry Creek in last year’s quarterfinals. They return an experienced senior core eager for vengeance. Taking Kent lightly could lead to an early wake-up call.

Speaking of revenge, Rock Canyon would love to repay the Bruins for knocking them out of last year’s playoffs. The Jaguars have circled their April 1st road matchup, hoping to out-physical Cherry Creek’s finesse. Rock Canyon’s passionate student section could provide an intimidating environment. Surviving this trap game will show poise.

Cross-town rival Mullen always arrives ready to Empty the tank in hopes of finally toppling the juggernaut. The Mustangs play with an edge, making the April 11th “Holy War” matchup a must-see grudge match. With bragging rights on the line, both teams leave nothing on the field. The Bruins can’t afford to get caught looking ahead.

Closing the regular season against Regis Jesuit on May 4th won’t be a walk in the park either. The Raiders are battle-tested thanks to playing in the state’s toughest conference. They would love to enter the playoffs with momentum by picking off mighty Cherry Creek. The Bruins must stay focused to avoid a stunning upset.

While the target remains squarely on their back all season long, these four contests stand out as potential ambushes. Between redemption-seeking challengers and playoff contenders desperate for signature wins, Cherry Creek’s path has plenty of mines capable of derailing their repeat title plans. Tuning out the noise and treating each opponent with respect will be critical. No one will hand them any wins – a lesson learned the hard way before. The Bruins’ seasoned leaders surely recognize these dangerous matchups and will have the squad locked in. Take any of these imposing foes lightly, and their championship aspirations could vanish instantly. Consider yourself warned!

Strengths of Cherry Creek Roster and Coaching Staff

The Cherry Creek lacrosse dynasty is no accident. Sustained excellence stems from program strengths spanning elite talent, culture, and leadership. Let’s examine some of the pillars that position the Bruins for continued success.

It all starts with the remarkable ability to reload with blue-chip prospects year-over-year. Between fundamentally sound youth players filtering up and transfers attracted by the winning tradition, the coaching staff has its pick of the litter. Parlaying this wealth of talent into cohesive units is a testament to their teambuilding skills.

That coaching continuity itself provides a major stability advantage. Head coach Brian Ayers has been at the helm for over a decade, establishing clear standards and systems. His assistants are mainly program alumni, furthering cohesion. Players know exactly what’s demanded of them within the Cherry Creek way.

Another underrated strength is the program’s development infrastructure. From rigorous off-season training cycles to positional coaching detail, players’ skills blossom. This allows overlooked talents to shine. Competing against the loaded rosters in practice accelerates growth too. Developing multi-year varsity contributors is a hallmark.

Gameplanning and in-game adjustments are outstanding as well. The staff scouts opponents extensively to devise effective schemes neutralizing their strengths. And Coach Ayers has a knack for tweaking tactics at halftime to counter defensive wrinkles. This adaptive coaching allows the team to impose their will.

Beyond x’s and o’s, Cherry Creek fosters a culture of accountability, selflessness, and mental toughness. Egos are checked at the door. Playing time must be earned constantly. Leadership demands holding teammates to the lofty standard. This environment breeds winners.

Of course, the collection of championship hardware and alumni playing collegiately also perpetuates the program’s aura. Prospects crave being part of the legacy. Each new class feels the weight of expectations to uphold the elite tradition. This constant motivation continues fueling the juggernaut.

With a perfect blend of talent, coaching, culture, and history, the ingredients are there for Cherry Creek to remain Colorado’s gold standard. Very few programs possess infrastructure this holistic and ingrained. The Bruins machine hums smoothly with all its parts synchronized – bad news for their opponents trying to keep pace. Until proven otherwise, write off this powerhouse at your own peril.

Weaknesses to Address Entering This Season

While the Cherry Creek lacrosse program seemingly has all the pieces for another championship run, no juggernaut is impervious to cracks in the armor. The coaching staff is undoubtedly poring over the tape and data to identify any deficiencies to shore up before games begin. Here are a few relative weaknesses to monitor entering the 2023 campaign.

Despite their depth, developing midfield chemistry could be an early challenge. Between graduated seniors and reshuffled lines, connections will take time to build. New dodger-feeder combos won’t click instantly. Early-season kinks could allow opponents to hang around.

Inexperience at the faceoff X is another relative question mark. While the pole prospects are promising, their Savvy is untested. Gaining live draw repetitions will be crucial. Dominating possession battles is less certain than past years when the Bruins owned this phase.

While the defense boasts talent, their communication and cohesion in sliding packages need reps. With unproven players stepping into starting roles, assignments and rotations may not be second nature yet. Opponents will surely challenge them early and often.

Lastly, relying on young bench players in high-leverage situations is an unknown. While the underclassmen have ample potential, how will they handle crunch time? The playoff pressure-cooker is an unforgiving environment to bet on prospects. Time will tell if they rise to the occasion.

Even elite teams have areas primed for improvement. The best coaching staffs critically self-assess and address deficiencies proactively. Knowning Coach Ayers’ painstaking preparation, he will have the squad fine-tuning any weaknesses through their demanding preseason regimen. Smooth out the early kinks, and this group should have all the pieces to fulfill their potential. But opponents will aim to expose any juggernaut vulnerabilities, so the Bruins can’t rest on their laurels. Honest self-evaluation and commitment to incremental progress will keep them on track for another deep playoff run if executed properly.

Importance of Team Chemistry and Leadership

With a roster overflowing with individual talent, many assume Cherry Creek’s continued dominance stems from superior skill alone. However, ask any coach or player and they’ll emphasize that team chemistry and leadership provide the secret sauce for sustaining excellence.

Despite the blue-chip recruits, egos are checked at the door. Playing time and roles must be earned daily through effort and selflessness. Underclassmen learn quickly that no individual is above the team goals. This culture of accountability breeds cohesion on and off the field.

Developing chemistry between units takes time and shared adversity. Players bond through grueling conditioning tests, competitive practices, and tight wins together. Trust builds incrementally, creating an unspoken rhythm. Teammates sense tendencies and tendencies. This sixth sense is invaluable come playoff time.

Leadership also emerges to provide stability amid the pressure cooker. The seniors and captains set the tone for focus, intensity, and resilience. Reminding the squad to tune out the noise and stick to the process carries weight. Younger players follow their lead.

During games, leaders reinforce composure and positivity despite adversity. They facilitate adjustments and problem-solving between quarters. Getting every player to buy into their role speeds in-game evolution. This leadership steadies the ship when things could unravel.

Finally, behind the scenes leadership builds critical relationships and habits. Players check on each other’s schoolwork, home life, and well-being beyond lacrosse. Study film together and stay after practice for extra reps. This commitment breeds a family-like bond.

Championship intangibles cannot be quantified on a stat sheet. But make no mistake, they are the special sauce that separates legendary dynasties. Cherry Creek recognizes this better than anyone – culture propagates success. While the program consistently reloads elite talent, the emphasis on team-first leadership produces winning chemistry year after year. This consistency gives them an edge that will be difficult for any opponent to overcome.

Offensive Strategy and Predicted Statistics

With an abundance of firepower, Cherry Creek’s offense should terrorize opponents this spring. The coaching staff will look to implement aggressive schemes leveraging their athleticism and experience. Here’s an overview of their strategic approach and some fearless statistical predictions.

Expect an uptempo, high-shooting offense geared towards wearing teams down. The midfield runs four capable lines deep, allowing them to push pace and create odd-man chances in transition. Opponents struggle keeping up for four quarters. Look for 15+ goal outputs to become the norm.

In the half-court, the offense will initiate from behind the cage. They’ll use rub and pick routes to open up junior dodger Dylan Holston or senior scorer Luke Abbott. Both attackmen possess the footwork and shooting chops to capitalize on these sets. Expect hat tricks from them regularly.

To counter defensive slides on the playmakers, the Bruins have off-ball threats like senior Austin White who find soft spots in coverage and convert late cuts. Austin could average 4+ goals as benefactor of focus elsewhere. Meanwhile, FOGO Evan Lewis will provide extra possessions.

I’d pencil in the Bruins for 13-15 goals per game at a 35%+ shooting clip. Abbott flirts with a 100-goal season if healthy, a milestone rarely seen in Colorado. Dylan Holston could chip in 50+ goals and assists too. This volume and efficiency should overwhelm most foes.

While Cherry Creek has no shortage of individual brilliance, their passing IQ raises the ceiling further. Lockdown defenses focused solely on playmakers will see backdoor looks exposed by savvy off-ball cutters. Goal totals will be well-distributed.

Bet against this deep and multifaceted attack at your own risk. The Bruins have the personnel and schemes to shatter records. Opponents face the unenviable choice of getting burned by dodgers or picked apart by off-ball cutters. No defense can take everything away – pick your poison time. The scary truth? This group is still reaching its peak. Once the chemistry clicks and shooting touches sharpen, 15 goals could represent an off night. Dominant offense is back at Cherry Creek!

Defensive Strategy and Goals Allowed Prediction

While the flashy offense grabs headlines, Cherry Creek’s dominance stems greatly from a suffocating defense allowing less than 7 goals per game in recent seasons. How will Coach Ayers construct his defensive scheme this spring? Let’s explore their approach and predictability.

The defense returns experience at LSM and Close D, led by shut-down sophomore pole Aaron Sykes. He’ll be tasked with neutralizing opponent’s top weapons. The Bruins allow him freedom to play tight man coverage, using his foot speed to limit chances.

Protecting the interior is senior Bryan Altman, the vocal captain at close D. Bryan excels reading the offense and sliding early to help. His physical play inside also forces opponents to shoot from the perimeter.

At cage, Johns Hopkins-commit Ethan Sax controls the box. His 68% save rate gives shooters nightmares. Ethan covers low corners with his quick reflexes.

Key Regular Season Matchups to Circle on Calendar

While the Bruins take every opponent seriously, a few regular season games stand out as must-see events. These matchups against elite contenders provide important measuring sticks for Cherry Creek before the do-or-die playoffs. Here are some key games for fans to circle in the calendar.

The home opener on March 7th against Kent Denver immediately pits the Bruins against a top-10 foe. Kent narrowly lost to Cherry Creek in last year’s quarters and would love an early statement win. How the young Bruins mesh will be tested against this experienced squad.

Perennial nemesis Regis Jesuit comes to town on March 21st in a contest likely to impact seeding. The Raiders play in Colorado’s toughest conference and always boast talent. Surviving this showdown would send a message before conference play ramps up.

After spring break, the Bruins host defending state champs Valor Christian on April 4th. Valor still boasts the firepower that toppled Cherry Creek last spring. This star-studded affair will show if the Bruins can match their skill and athleticism for a full 48 minutes.

Late in the season, Cherry Creek visits Columbine on May 1st in a game that could decide the conference title. The Rebels are well-coached and would energize their home crowd. Winning on the road against these savvy underdogs would display maturity.

Of course everyone circles the annual grudge match against Mullen on April 11th. This crosstown rivalry always produces fireworks. Bragging rights for the next year go to the winner. Expect a playoff atmosphere.

These five contests all represent potential resume-builders or stumbling blocks. The Bruins will need to be focused and firing on all cylinders. Use these games as a progress check before the unforgiving playoffs commence. Pass these tests, and Cherry Creek should garner in-state respect when seedings shake out.

Goals and Expectations for 2023 Playoffs

The grueling regular season slate is merely preparation for Cherry Creek’s ultimate goals when the win-or-go-home playoffs commence. With the program’s pedigree, anything short of competing for a title would be disappointing. Let’s examine their playoff expectations and approach.

First and foremost, the Bruins expect to reach Championship Weekend competing for the crown. The packed stadium environment on Memorial Day weekend has become tradition. This team knows the bar for success – semifinals would be falling short.

To achieve that objective, the coaching staff preaches taking it one game at a time. While the end goal remains clear, obsessively planning beyond the next matchup can be fatal. Complete focus on executing each playoff gameplan is demanded.

Come playoff time, the team’s versatility and depth become critical advantages. The shortened turnaround between rounds rewards durable teams with waves of contributors. Cherry Creek’s superior conditioning pays dividends by the semifinals.

Adaptability within games also distinguishes winners and losers in the playoffs. Opponents throw unexpected looks, and in-game adjustments become necessary. The Bruins coaching staff has proven adept at tweaking tactics smoothly between halves at this time of year.

Of course, experience anchors the team amid the high stakes. The veteran Bruins have been in pressure cooker situations before. Leadership keeps the squad grounded and resilient through adversity. Poise and steadiness prevail.

Above all, Cherry Creek respects every postseason opponent. Playoff upsets always linger as possibility. Taking any foe lightly would be a recipe for disaster. Their preparation and focus reaches another intensity for May Madness.

Reaching Championship Weekend is no easy feat, but it’s the standard for this storied program. Match by rugged match, they plan to embrace the journey. The Bruins’ depth and poise position them well for the playoff grind ahead. Expect this experienced bunch to meet their lofty goals of playing into June. The road there won’t be smooth, but this crew knows sacrifices required come May.

How State Title Could Impact Cherry Creek Lacrosse’s Legacy

You know what I love about lacrosse? It’s such an exciting, fast-paced game. And one of the top high school lacrosse programs in Colorado is definitely Cherry Creek. Man, that team is good. Seriously, Cherry Creek lacrosse dominates the field year after year. They’re like the powerhouse of Colorado prep lacrosse. It’s unreal watching them play.

Now there’s been some chatter about Cherry Creek possibly winning state this year. As a longtime fan, I gotta say – that would be huge for the program’s legacy. A state title this year could really solidify Cherry Creek as one of the premier lacrosse dynasties not just in Colorado, but in the whole country. How epic would that be?

Just think about Cherry Creek’s journey over the past decade or so. They’ve built themselves into a perennial contender, making deep playoff runs almost every season. And they’ve come oh-so-close to capturing that elusive state championship, only to fall just short. Heartbreaking losses in the state final in 2019 and 2021 – ugh, I still get bummed thinking about those games.

But this Cherry Creek team just feels special. Their midfield is loaded with speed and playmaking ability. That attack is a three-headed monster capable of slicing up defenses. And their defense – whew, good luck scoring on that unit. Seriously, they have all the pieces to go all the way.

Now I know the competition will be tough. Teams like Regis Jesuit, Kent Denver, and Valor Christian always give Cherry Creek a battle. But I believe this Cherry Creek squad has the depth and determination to finally get over the hump. It just feels like their time.

And man, can you imagine the scenes if Cherry Creek finally captures that state lacrosse title? The celebration would be unreal. All the players, students, parents, and alumni would be going crazy. It would be this massive community achievement that the whole program could rally around. The stuff of legends.

Not to mention how huge it would be for Head Coach Matt Esser. Dude has put in the work over a decade plus to build Cherry Creek into this perennial powerhouse. He deserves to cement his legacy with a state title. It would be the ultimate validation of Esser and his program.

I also think about the impact a state title could have on the growth of lacrosse in Colorado. Cherry Creek is like the gold standard – the program everyone tries to emulate. So them winning it all this year could inspire kids across the state to pick up a stick and get involved with lacrosse. The rising tide lifts all boats, right?

But above all, this potential state title would be massive for the legacy of Cherry Creek lacrosse. They’ve reached the mountaintop in so many other sports. It’s time for lacrosse to join the party. It would prove once and for all that Cherry Creek isn’t just some flash in the pan – they’re an elite, championship-caliber program built to stand the test of time.

The state playoffs start soon, and I gotta say I’m nervous. But I believe in this Cherry Creek team. Their journey has been building towards this moment. Let’s go bring that state title back to Cherry Creek! The legacy awaits.

College Commitments Already Made by Juniors

The Cherry Creek lacrosse team is stacked with talent, no doubt about it. And some of their top juniors are already attracting attention from college programs. These players have crazy skills and high lacrosse IQs. The college commitments are rolling in early.

It’s super impressive seeing these student-athletes earn scholarship offers as juniors. It just shows the level Cherry Creek lacrosse is on. These kids put in the work both on and off the field to set themselves up for success. Big time props to them.

Let’s highlight a few of the early commitments. Starting with midfielder Jackson Morril, who verbally committed to Johns Hopkins recently. Johns Hopkins! One of the most storied lacrosse programs ever. For Jackson to earn a scholarship offer from them already proves he’s among the elite. Dude has speed for days and is so dynamic on the break. Johns Hopkins is getting a good one.

Cherry Creek’s face-off dominator Ben Restic also decided to commit early, selecting Notre Dame as his future home. Ben completely controls the ‘X’ – he’s winning over 70% of his face-offs this season. Unheard of numbers. That skill will translate seamlessly to the college level. Notre Dame landed a face-off beast in Ben.

And how about Cherry Creek’s lockdown close defender Nate Schwartz? He recently announced his commitment to UPenn. Nate is a force on defense with his aggressiveness and physicality. Attackmen hate matching up against him because they get smothered all game long. UPenn getting Nate in their defensive unit is huge.

It’s not just the guys earning early commitments either. Cherry Creek’s top female player, midfielder Jordyn Conant, also committed prior to her senior year. She’ll be taking her two-way, playmaking skills to Syracuse. That’s right, an ACC school! Jordyn brings a complete game with her speed, IQ, and non-stop motor. Syracuse soccer is getting a good one.

With all these early commitments, other juniors on the squad must be motivated to ball out and earn their own scholarships. The competition at practice will be intense. I’m betting we’ll see a bunch more Chery Creek juniors commit over the next few months. And why not? College coaches know Cherry Creek lacrosse produces legit talent.

Hats off to Coach Esser too for developing these players and putting them in positions to succeed. He works tirelessly to help each player reach their potential. It’s awesome seeing that pay off with these scholarship offers.

The future remains bright for Cherry Creek lacrosse. Their junior class sets the tone with all these early commitments. Next come the hungry sophomores and freshmen clamoring for their own offers. If I’m a college coach, I’m camping out at Cherry Creek to get a jump on recruiting their players. This program keeps reloading with studs!

These early commitments also motivate Cherry Creek to compete for that elusive state title. Think of the buzz if they capture a championship and send this decorated junior class off to college programs? It would be legendary. The expectations and stakes couldn’t be higher – exactly how the players and Coach Esser like it.

The legacy of excellence continues at Cherry Creek! Big accomplishments ahead for this amazing program.
Here is a 1000+ word article on “What a Championship Could Mean for National Rankings” for Cherry Creek Lacrosse:

What a Championship Could Mean for National Rankings

The Cherry Creek lacrosse program is already considered an elite powerhouse in Colorado and the West region. But a state championship this season could elevate them to the next level nationally. It would be a huge statement for the program’s national reputation.

Don’t get me wrong – Cherry Creek is firmly in the conversation as a top 25 national team already. They’ve been ranked consistently over the past few years and project as a preseason top 15 squad for this upcoming season. But they’ve always fallen just short of winning that coveted state title.

A championship changes the narrative. It proves this program can reach the mountaintop and beat the other elite teams in Colorado when it matters most. For a program like Cherry Creek that’s built a reputation for excellence, that validation is massive.

And you know a state title would catch the attention of the national rankings and analysts. It propels Cherry Creek into the discussion for a potential top 10 program. They check every box – tough national schedule, stacked with DI commits, depth at every position. Now add the hardware of a state championship? That’s huge.

It also gives their reputation a boost when it comes to playing the top out-of-state competition. The lacrosse community would see Cherry Creek as more than just a “Colorado team.” They’d see a championship program ready to compete with the elite from lacrosse hotbeds.

I could absolutely envision wins over nationally ranked juggernauts like Gonzaga (DC), Episcopal Academy (PA), and McDonogh School (MD) next season if Cherry Creek takes state this spring. The floodgates open for Cherry Creek to topple some lacrosse giants.

And you know college coaches will take notice of the state championship pedigree too. Coaches want players who know how to win big games and handle pressure. That experience would give current and future Cherry Creek players a leg up in recruiting.

It also raises the game of every Colorado program chasing that same title. The bar gets set high for the type of excellence needed to win it all.cherry Creek can say “This is what a championship program looks like – catch us if you can.” The rising tide lifts all boats.

For Coach Matt Esser, a state title could be his magnum opus at Cherry Creek. Imagine cementing your legacy with THE banner and trophy this program has been chasing. What a perfect culmination of his work building this incredible program.

And on a personal level, you know those Cherry Creek kids would love the chance to dogpile and celebrate a championship with their teammates. The stuff they’ll remember forever. Watching that trophy presentation, seeing the community support – that’s what it’s all about.

The expectations rise every year for Cherry Creek lacrosse. They’ve reached the final and semifinals recently – now it’s time to break through. From an in-state and national perspective, this program is ready to join the elite champions.

Get the parade route ready – Cherry Creek is coming! The national lacrosse landscape better be on notice. This program is about to make its championship statement loud and clear this season!
Here is a 1000+ word article on “Why This Could Be a Special Year for Cherry Creek” for Cherry Creek Lacrosse:

Why This Could Be a Special Year for Cherry Creek

The Cherry Creek lacrosse program sets the standard year in and year out as Colorado’s premier prep powerhouse. But all signs point to this season being extra special for the Bruins. The pieces are in place for a potential magical run.

Now don’t get me wrong – every season is important when you’re an elite program like Cherry Creek. The expectation is to compete for the state championship every single year. That pressure to sustain excellence never goes away.

But this 2023 Cherry Creek squad just feels primed for an all-time great season. It starts with the senior class, which is loaded with next-level talent. 12 seniors have already committed to play college lacrosse – that’s crazy! And not just any colleges either – we’re talking Duke, North Carolina, Penn State, Johns Hopkins. Absolute lacrosse factories.

This senior group is so motivated too. They’ve reached the state semifinals twice and the championship game once during their careers. But they’ve yet to hoist the trophy. You know they feel the urgency to cap their high school legacy with a ring. I’d hate to be the team standing in their way.

Then when you add in Cherry Creek’s underclassmen, who gain experience in practice going against those elite seniors every day, you can see why expectations are so high. Several freshmen and sophomores will make big contributions this spring.

And we can’t forget about Head Coach Matt Esser. He’s a strategic mastermind when it comes to putting together his lineup and gameplans. Coach Esser knows exactly how to maximize this stacked roster. His championship pedigree speaks for itself.

Cherry Creek also scheduled an absolute gauntlet of nationally ranked opponents this season. They’re not ducking anyone – it’s clear this program wants to prove itself against the best. If Cherry Creek comes out of that national slate undefeated, watch out!

You also can’t discount the sense of urgency created by last year’s early playoff exit. After reaching the state title game in 2021, last season felt anticlimactic. I know that playoff disappointment has fueled the team’s motivation this offseason.

The competition in Colorado gets tougher each year too. Rival programs like Valor Christian, Regis Jesuit, and Kent Denver are gunning for Cherry Creek. But something tells me this Cherry Creek squad will rise to the challenge and handle their business.

And finally, the lacrosse community in Colorado feels ready to rally behind Cherry Creek with huge support. Fans want to will this special group of players to the elusive state title. The energy surrounding the program this spring just feels different.

Maybe I’m too much of a Cherry Creek homer. But all signs point to a potentially magical season. The lacrosse gods owed this talented and motivated senior class one last shot at glory. Why not this year for that breakthrough championship?