Before the spring sports calendar is in full swing, the News Compass is checking in with the coaches of Prior Lake varsity sports to get a preview of the competition ahead. Coach responses are lightly edited for clarity. Below is a look at the boys lacrosse team, a traditional power looking to return to the state tournament field.
Coach: Sam Kepner, in his second year as head coach and with the program since 2018.
Team leadership: Team captains seniors Griffin Noble, George Tocko and Dillon Tushie.
Top returning contributors (with 2024 statistics): Noble, attack, 25 goals and 14 assists; Tocko, attack/midfield, 13 goals and six assists; Tushie, defense, 2024 All-American, 68 ground balls and 32 forced turnovers; junior Hudson Young, goalie, 11 wins and .540 save percentage; junior Griffin Marshall, midfield/faceoff specialist, 58% faceoff win percentage.
What are your expectations for the team’s performance this season?
Head coach Sam Kepner: “Led by a stout defense, we are positioned to compete. [But] past success does not determine future success. [The players] will need to find their own identity as they commit, connect and improve each day.”
What will be your team’s biggest challenge this season?
Kepner: “Offensive youth. The team may have growing pains as they identify who can fill the roles of Max Anderson and Jack Tocko, two all-state attackers from 2024. We’re looking to Cade Wozney, Devin Zender and Marshall to contribute on all ends of the field.”
Are there any big competitions on the calendar your team is looking forward to?
Kepner: “According to LaxNumbers, the Lakers played the most difficult schedule in the state in 2024. This season will be no different in a deep South Suburban Conference and the toughest section in the state.”
Kepner also highlighted matchups against other Twin Cities foes in Benilde-St. Margaret’s, Stillwater and Chanhassen.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your team?
Kepner: “Former Prior Lake head coach Chris Fleck is being inducted into the MSHSL Coaches Hall of Fame this year.”
