It was everything you would want in a Milford sports event. There were hits, laughs, scoring and above all, family. There were biological connections for sure, but more importantly there were not only past Milford lacrosse players spanning 15 years, but also a look towards the future. The annual event, which pits mostly graduating and active players against those who played before them, had the younger players in control almost from the start.
It was quite the change from last year’s event which saw the teams mixed together at the half, simply because of the alumni advantage.
“It was great to see our younger guys come out with so much more confidence this year and take it to the alumni. They played liked they did during the second half of this season, which was all you could ask for.” Coach Blake Faulkner said.
While the quality of lacrosse was good, more importantly it was just the joy of sport and family which was really stood out on this beautiful spring evening. A high point in the evening was when 6th grader Easton Hill, was playing attack as his brother Landon was in goal for the young Bucs. Landon who was named 2nd team All-State, got to see Easton score on the alumni, receiving a huge round of applause from the fans.
“That’s what this is all about, it’s about the Milford community and us being a family.” Faulkner stated.
Shining on the evening for the young Bucs was Ty Mackert, who recorded four goals in the match. Milford’s all-time leader in goals and assists, who was recently named 1st team All-State demonstrated why he earned that spot in the All-Star game The most astounding of those goals came from 30 yards out and went right between the legs of alumni keeper Shane Gaglione.
For Mackert, it was great to play a game with his fellow seniors
“There are so many great memories I have of this team. To be able to play one last time as a group was very special. I am going to miss this so much, it’s difficult to explain. To have shared the field with this group over the last four years has really been amazing. It’s a bond that only comes from all the work, all the practice, everything.” Mackert said.
Mackert will continue to play lacrosse as he attends D-III Lynchburg University in the fall.
