After a “program reset” in 2024, Bloomington-Normal boys lacrosse is hungry for 2025.

“Last year was a program reset. We had a lot of guys on the field who had no game experience, so it’s a development and growth thing that will take some time,” Head coach Jackson Fischer claimed.

Fischer embarks on his 2nd year as the Bloomington-Normal Lacrosse coach and is still searching for his first win at the helm after an 0-11 season last year.

“I know there’s a big chip on my shoulder after last year,”  Fischer continued.

Despite losing 5 senior starters, which includes leading scorer Andrew Bair, Fischer boasts a next-guy-up mentality.

“It’s next guy up, and these younger guys are putting in a lot of work in the offseason. It’s a team sport,”  Fischer stated.

With eight seniors on the roster this year, Fischer praises their leadership.

“They’ve done a great job leading the team. They’re going to lead our team through victories and losses.  It’s good having the strong senior leadership on the team [who know the culture and can] help the entire team win games,”  Fischer boasted.

However, one senior stands out from the rest, and it’s attacker Ryan Baxter, who led the team in points despite playing in only eight games.

“His shot somehow has gotten faster and more accurate.  He’s going to be a big contributor on the offense,“   Fischer praised.

With lots of returning experience, Fischer credits maturity as a key strength.

“A strength is maturity. These guys have been around lacrosse; there’s a lot of talent and work ethic on this team. They put in a lot of work in week one in the off-season. Working hard and having the maturity to know what needs to be done are our biggest strengths on the team this year,”  Fischer accredited.

Their maturity will be on full display on Saturday, March 22, as they open up the season at Lockport High School.