There are 21 returning letter-winners for the Wilmington High School lacrosse team this season.
Head coach Adam Shultz is hoping an influx of experience newcomers helps the Hurricane build on a 7-9 record from 2018.
“Some of our freshman athletes are bringing two years of experience from middle school,” said Shultz, who will be assisted this season by Austin Gray and Cory Hogsett.
Conner Mitchell is the top returning player. He was a Region 8 Division II honorable mention player who scored 13 goals and won 115 faceoffs in 2018.
Among the top returning players are Justus Farris, Chris Custis, Canon Ford, Jacob Frazier, Logan Frazier and Sam Eastes.
Key Newcomers are Bailey McVey, Elijah Martini, Bryson McVey, Jude Martin, Austin Pagett, Dylan Piatt, Barrett Powell, Logan Salitan and Donovan Vires.
Wilmington will have to replace Conner Barton, a two-time Region 8 Div. III honorable mention goalkeeper, Ridgedon Beam (team-best 42 ground balls), Patrick Black, Bricen Cook, Cody Cravens, Blake Frazier and Destry Powell.
Shultz said the Hurricane offense is playing “extremely unselfish” but he is concerned with the squad’s stick skills and preseason injuries.
Mariemont is the team to beat in the Southwest region, the WHS coach said.