On Wednesday, the Milford Lacrosse program held an alumni game, featuring a wide mix of players. Some recent graduates, some still in college, some still playing at Milford, and some who had not played lacrosse for years. Organized by current Milford coach Blake Faulkner, it was an afternoon filled with lacrosse, joy and laughter, even some lighthearted ribbing of the officiating of which Faulkner was the primary target.
“It is really a great day to have current and past players come out and enjoy the day, it has all the feeling of a Milford family reunion,” Faulkner stated.
While nobody was quite sure what the final score was, it was clear that there were not any losers. When you think of an alumni game, you might expect a bunch of out-of-shape players running haplessly around the field. In truth, it was a game played with solid pace, crisp shooting and outstanding goal keeping. With most of the alumni still active in college or adult leagues, it presented a unique opportunity for Faulkner’s younger players to play against and with former players, helping to increase their skill and knowledge level in a fun filled atmosphere.
“I think that our current guys really get a lot out of it. They can see what is possible when you keep working at a craft. Beyond getting tips and advice, they really get to see what it means to be a Buccaneer for life. That is the culture we are building here, that is why the graduates come back, to help Milford take the next step as a program.” Faulkner said.
One of the players who fell into the category of “not picking up a stick in years” was 2010 graduate Zach Gonzalez who got to play in front of his wife, Faith, and their three children Belle, Madison and Gabe. Even though he had not picked up a stick in 15 years, Gonzalez did not look bad as he played defense. When asked about his experience, Gonzalez replied “It was a lot of fun out there today. I do have to say the game has changed, players are so much faster when I played, well maybe I’m not as fast as I used to be [He said with a chuckle] it was really a great day out here today, lots of fun.”
Speaking to Gonzalez’s wife about the game, she was very happy to have watched Zach participate.
“He has talked about when he played before, but I never got to see him. To watch him out there having fun was great. Madison loved it, she is already asking about getting a stick and learning how to play girls lacrosse.” Faith Gonzalez stated.
While Milford has held alumni games in the past, they have been sporadic in their occurrence. The plan going forward is for them to become more regular.
“Former coach Vavala, who has mentored me over the years, believes it is crucial to keep a program building upon itself and that events like this are a key to it. So as long as we can, we are going to keep making these games more regular in occurrence “Faulkner concluded.
