White Bear Lake is aware of its dominance in the Suburban East Conference, but the players and coaches are split on its importance.
The Bears defeated East Ridge 8-3 on Monday, extending their impressive league winning streak to 35 games over five seasons. White Bear Lake senior midfielder Connar Dehnert said his teammates have no problem embracing the run.
“Every pregame, we write it down to make sure we know,” said Dehnert, who had three goals in the victory over the Raptors.
Bears coach Brandon Husak has a different view. He said the coaches acknowledge the victories, but don’t speak about the specific number.
“We don’t want to focus on (the streak), (but) we want to be proud it,” he added.
White Bear Lake, ranked No. 7 by the Minnesota State High School Boys' Lacrosse Coaches Association, entered the matchup averaging more than 14 goals per game, but that high-scoring offense seemed to be hibernating as Bears led only 4-3 at halftime.
White Bear Lake then scored one goal in the third quarter and three in the fourth to pull away for the victory.
Husak credits the performance of junior midfielder Ethan Peterson for helping the Bears control the game's tempo in the final 24 minutes.
“I don’t know if (Peterson) lost a faceoff tonight,” Husak said. “He absolutely dominated.
“In the second half, when it turned into a sole-possession game, (the Raptors) could barely touch the ball,” Husak added.
East Ridge may have found it difficult to touch the ball, but the Raptors had no trouble ramping up the physical play on Dehnert, who took much more contact as time was winding down.
“It gets me into the game,” Dehnert said of the extra attention. “I have fun with it.”
Junior midfielder Shane Olsen said Dehnert also has fun after scoring a goal.
“When you make eye contact with him after a goal, he’s always got a smile on,” said a beaming Olsen.
Dehnert’s been smiling a lot this season. He’s scored 28 goals in just eight games and is the state’s second-leading goal scorer.
Dehnert, who has 123 career goals in four varsity seasons, has signed to play for Division I Lafayette College (Pa.) next season.
Husak said Dehnert’s success is based on a combination of talent and experience.
“I’ve known Connar for a long time now,” Husak said. “He has matured incredibly as a senior.”
Dehnert’s is not the only player going through the growth process. Husak said the entire team has matured, nurtured in an environment that fosters fun and determination on a daily basis.
“We just get excited about being out here and being able to come play,” Husak added. “They’re all still kids, and they have to enjoy and love the game.”
