Second Season Gets Underway for MU Lacrosse

Photos from 2011-12 Opening Practice

MACON, Ga. - Year No. 2 of Mercer University men's lacrosse officially got underway Sunday morning as head coach Jason Childs welcomed 43 players to his first practice session. In all, the Bears have 20 newcomers to go along with 23 returning players from last year's inaugural team.

"I am very excited to see how our new players blend in with the returners," Childs said. "While last year had a lot of growing pains as a new program, I think this year is one in which we close some of those 'gaps' that existed between the talent level of most of the teams we faced in 2011. I would expect this year's team to be in position to reverse many of the results which didn't go our way because of our inexperience."

Fielding a lineup entirely made up of freshman in 2011, plenty of experience was gained. However, the Bears - while considerably more experienced in the collegiate game of lacrosse - will still have a youthful air about the roster with just one senior, two juniors, 23 sophomores and 17 freshmen.

"Yes, we are still young on paper," Childs agreed.  "However, this group has come out with a great attitude. They worked hard in the off season and came in ready to go at it."