Strong Play Across the Board Leads to Success for ME Boys Lax

The supporting role seems to suit everybody on the Manchester Essex boys lacrosse team.

The Hornets have picked each other up in light of injuries, sharing the challenge, responsibility and the credit that goes along with an impressive 5-1 start to the 2026 season.

“We have played complementary lacrosse between our offensive and defensive units,” explains Manchester Essex boys lacrosse coach Wesley Chittick.  “In the early part of the season, we have dealt with a fair number of injuries, particularly on the defensive side.  It has been important for us to win face-offs and work for quality shots on the offensive end.  In addition, our defense has been able to make timely stops.”

A prime example of sharing the load and sharing the credit can be seen up front on offense.  The Manchester Essex attack is experienced and talented, but there has been no one go-to player for the opposition to focus on, leading to double-digit scoring in their five wins.

“The most encouraging sign of our early season offensive success is that we are well-balanced unit that is not dependent on one or two players to carry the burden,” says Chittick.  “Currently, we have 6 players who have 10 or more points.”

The stats bear out Chittick’s assessment of the situation.  Jack McCavanaugh leads the team with 31 total points (13 goals, 18 assists), followed by fellow senior Charles Thurlow (11 goals, 9 assists), Turner Valeo (11 goals, 5 assists), Bodin Carovillano (14 goals, 2 assists), Luke Renzi (12 points total) and Noah Coehn (10 points total).

“The offensive unit has played unselfishly and been willing to make the extra pass to get great shots,” says Chittick.  “This, combined with consistent stick skills has led the unit to average 12 goals a game.”

Renzi has been nearly unbeatable on face-offs, helping his team gain and maintain possession in the early going, while Connor Dickson has been a key performer in goal.

“Luke Renzi has won 76 percent of his face-offs,” says Chittick.  “Consistent possession has been crucial for our offensive and team success.  Connor Dickson, who was hurt for our first three games, has returned and saved 78% of his shots in the past three games.”

While it’s a good sign that the Hornets have started strong – including wins over playoff performers Pentucket and Ipswich - the coach is hoping his team can keep building toward peaking for postseason play.  He points to the team’s one loss so far as proof that there is still work to do.

“Obviously, getting early season wins is always encouraging,” explains Chittick.  “However, we are striving for continual improvement so that we can be playing our best lacrosse when it matters most in June.  We have been fortunate to play some tough opponents that have challenged us and exposed some areas that we need to improve in, particularly Weston, who defeated us, 6-5.”

Manchester Essex was slated to face a tough Wakefield team on April 20, followed by a road contest with Cape Ann League foe Lynnfield on April 24.

“This week, we will face a very talented Wakefield team who handily defeated us last season,” says Chittick.  “On Thursday we will have a tough CAL test on the road as we face Lynnfield.  I stress to not look too far in the future but try to get better each day and focus on our upcoming opponent.”

Jason Brisbois covers all things sports for the Manchester Cricket.  Contact him at jason@thecricket.com.