Entering this past weekend’s slate against two out-of-conference teams, the boys varsity lacrosse team looked to make a statement. That started on Friday night when highly-ranked Orchard Lake St. Mary’s came to town. 

The Rangers knew what they were going up against: a consistent contender in D-II that is a constant threat to make noise in June. The Eaglets have been sent home by FHC multiple times in the playoffs. 

Still, the Rangers came out with unmatched energy, grabbed a huge lead early, and coasted to a 15-2 win. It was a monumental defensive showing. 

“We wanted our defense to play 1V1 and be slow to slide from the back side,” head coach Andy Shira said after Friday’s win. “Make them beat us one-on-one, essentially.”

This strategy turned out to be an expert one, as the Ranger defensemen played exceptional from start to finish. The lead kept growing, though, thanks to a strong attack by senior John Tomsheck and junior Jonah McConnell. 

FHC lacrosse has now beaten a plethora of powerhouses in the Midwest. Whether it be Hamilton SE, Carmel, Detroit Country Day, and now St. Mary’s, the boys have kept their composure and played within their game. 

Less than 24 hours later, the team was en route to Brighton for its first road game of the season, and it was more of the same from the night prior. 

Arguably the most valuable player on this FHC roster is junior goalie standout Crandall Quinn. The three-year starter is now expected to make nearly every save, and yet, he still does. He allowed just four goals over two days and made a whopping nine saves against Brighton. 

“Crandall was a brick wall, as always,” coach Shira praised. 

The attack was as strong as ever in this one. Facilitated by Tomsheck with five assists, the FHC offense saw five guys earn a hat trick. McConnell, Tomsheck, Nathan Sarjeant, Jake Koning, and Nolan Hartl each scored three goals. Jack McNamara also scored one of his own. It’s hard to ask for a more collective effort on either side. 

The Rangers led 15-2 at halftime and cruised to its second win in two days. Don’t look now, but FHC lacrosse is 7-0. 

The upcoming week is a grueling one for the boys. Starting with trips to Rockford on Tuesday and FHN on Thursday, FHC will make the hike to Hartland for a marquee matchup with the Eagles on Saturday, April 30.

“The thing I’m most happy about with is this was an all-around team effort,” coach Shira said. “The offense and defense were clicking and our transition game was very strong.”