Utah Valley University returned to the RMLC this year after not fielding a team last season while the program rebuilt. The rebuilding project appears to be working, as the Division 1AA Wolverines handed the Fort Lewis College Skyhawks their second loss of the season on a clear Friday night in Orem, UT. The 15-9 final score doesn’t reflect how close the game was, as the game was tied 1-1 after the first quarter and 5-5 at halftime. Unfortunately for the Fort, the team had no answer for the faceoff dominance and transition pressure of UVU in the 3rd quarter. In similar fashion to the Skyhawks other loss (to D1AA Utah St.) the Fort could not string together enough quality possessions to mount a comeback. Conor Henricks continued his hot streak, with a 4 goal 2 assist performance, and Hayden Pike did what he could with 17 saves.
On a truly disappointing note, several players sustained injuries in the game, as the officials let players on both teams get away with overly aggressive stick checks and dangerous helmet hits. There is no place for this in today’s game, it is a disgrace to the RMLC to allow this type of play to go unchecked. As a coach, I know that some games should be physical, but letting players play does not mean allowing full swing slashes, leading with helmets, or cross checks to the back. I am proud of this Skyhawk team for a continued dedication to responsible lacrosse, and disappointed to not see the same dedication from the people with the power to make sure the game is played correctly. I don’t often use this forum to rant, but if we do not all make an effort to change the game and make it safer, someone will get seriously injured; we can not wait until it is too late.
Fort Lax takes on RMLC rival the Montana State University Bobcats on Sunday 3/30 at 10:00am in Orem, UT. This game will be for the top position in a competitive RMLC D2 playoff picture.
flclax.com 