The Washington and Lee men’s lacrosse team is off to a hot start this season, winning six of their first eight games.

The team success has been fueled by terrific offensive performances.  Attacker A.J. Witherell, ’19, leads the team in both goals and points with 17 and 21 respectively.  He is also second on the team in shooting percentage at 44.7 percent.

Graeme Weaver, ’16, and Sam Dardani, ’18, have been significant contributors on the attacking side of the field as well with eight assists apiece. They have scored a combined 13 goals.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Generals have seen terrific play from goalkeeper Wyatt Devine, ‘16. While playing all but four minutes this season, he has saved over half of the shots that have come his way. His 85 saves are good for fifth in the ODAC.

Collective success, however, requires more than offense and defense.

“I think senior leadership played a huge part in our continued success, as they helped control our team through some adversity,” Witherell said. “In addition, I think everybody finally started to find their groove and formulate chemistry.”

Defender Matt Infante, ’17, said the team can credit its on-field chemistry to the time the team has spent off the field together. Infante points to activities like paintball which helped bring the team together.

Despite the success, the team has also had to face a number of challenges in the opening half of the season.

“We’ve lost a few starters and key contributors to season-ending injuries in the last two weeks,” Weaver said.  “It’s always tough to see your teammate and friends lose a season, but the team needs to move forward and keep getting better.”

With how the Generals are playing thus far, they are on pace to finish the season with a dozen wins and expect to make a run at the ODAC championship. The coaches have given the team three instructions to keep the success going.

“A few things our coaches have taught us have been vital to our success are we are a team of grinders, always keep a hammer in the tool belt, and it is a great day to be an American and a General,” Weaver said.