This past offseason has been a busy time for both the women’s and men’s lacrosse teams. Each team has been working tirelessly to improve themselves after a fall season that saw Mercer’s women’s team 9-11 and the men go 4-10, respectively.

As SoCon play approaches once again, each team is focused on honing their skills and ensuring home wins. Senior women’s lacrosse player Kelly Hagerty was adamant about how hard they have been working to improve their playing skills.

“This past fall season was full of a lot of hard work and learning new things,” Hagerty said.

“We worked really hard this fall and are excited to see that hard work pay off this season.”

As for the men’s lacrosse team, Head coach Kyle Hannan described the past season as successful. He said that it can be difficult for some first-year players to acclimate to the team, but returning members help the transition by providing leadership for new teammates.

“Helping new players acclimate is important, but most of the coaches have to learn the team’s identity and attack the strengths and weaknesses. The team’s results proved to be positive going undefeated through four exhibition games,” Hannan said.

According to the Mercer Athletics website, the men’s lacrosse team will play 13 games and the women’s team will play 17 games. Each team said they are excited about their upcoming seasons.

“We are looking forward to a fresh start and playing new teams we haven’t seen before. We’re also excited to defend our title of SoCon champions,” Hagerty said.

While the men’s team is also looking to winning their own SoCon championship, they’re also focused on overcoming the difficulties they may face.

“Difficult situations will arise all season long. The key is for the team and coaches to identify these adverse situations and deal with them appropriately,” Hannan said.

“In any sport, at any level, the teams that fight through the difficult situations are successful,” he said.

The positive attitudes of both teams make it easier for them to overcome the adversities they might face as a team. The women’s team says that obstacles are inevitable, but that they have strategies for overcoming any difficulties that they may face.

“There will be obstacles in our way, such as difficult workouts or challenging games, but as a team, we will rise and get through the difficulties together,” Hagerty said.

As both teams gear up for the new season it is important to keep in mind how much both teams are practicing to make Mercer proud.

“I would encourage Bears fans to come out and watch the Mercer lacrosse teams in action,”  Hannan said. “The game is fast-paced, physical and fun to watch. Go Bears!”