Coming off a state championship season, expectations were high for the LHS boys lacrosse team. However, with the graduation of key seniors, this year brought a new challenge, one that senior Bryce Hidalgo has stepped up to meet as both a player and a leader.
For Hidalgo, the game is not new.
“I’ve been playing lacrosse for about nine years,” Hidalgo said. “I first got into it because my brother started playing in first grade, and my dad coached him, so I decided to give it a try too.”
Now a long stick middie (LSM), Hidalgo plays a key role in the team’s defensive unit. Known for his speed and field awareness, he consistently disrupts opposing offenses and creates transition opportunities.
“He is super fast and has incredible stick skills,” said defensive coach Pete Lamb. “He is able to cover so much ground defensively that he can get us out of a lot of bad situations. And even playing with the long defensive stick, he is arguably the best shooter on the team.”
Hidalgo’s ability to turn defense into offense has made him a constant threat on the field. Whether it’s shutting down the opposing team’s top midfielders or pushing the ball in transition, he has proven himself to be one of the team’s most dependable players.
“He’s done
it time and time again,” said Lamb. “He’s scored game-winning goals and defended the number one midfield threats every time he steps on the field. If a play needs to be made, I’m looking for #11.”
After last year’s championship run, the team lost several seniors, leaving gaps both on and off the field. As one of the few returning varsity players, Hidalgo knew he needed to step into a bigger role.
“As a leader, I try to be someone who leaves a positive impact on the younger players who look up to me,” said Hidalgo. “I try to model what I think an ideal member of our LHS lacrosse team is, hoping it helps them become the best versions of themselves.”
Lamb has seen that leadership develop throughout the season.
Bryce is a ‘glue guy’,” said Lamb. “Whether he’s at the field, in school, or out socially, he’s someone both the coaches and the players rely on. He keeps the team connected and brings everyone together.”
Beyond his performance, Hidalgo plays a major role in shaping the team’s culture.
Junior Quinn Massari says “the team would not be the same without him.”
“As a coach, I rely on Bryce all the time,” Lamb said. “For feedback, for leadership, and for understanding the team. Whatever the team needs, he does.”
While Hidalgo does not plan to play collegiate lacrosse, he is considering continuing at the club level depending on where he attends college.
While his future is undecided, his focus remains on making the most of his final season. From being a mentor to stepping up in big moments, his impact goes far beyond statistics.
When Hidalgo graduates, the team will not only lose a key contributor, but also a leader whose presence has helped define the program. He will be missed both on and off the field.
