By Henry Smith – Staff Reporter

Junior Walat Balu has become a key player in the success of the lacrosse team through his rapid improvement in his second year at goalie.

Balu had a standout performance in a 18-1 win against Wilbur Cross, making 12 saves and allowing only one goal.

“Walat’s biggest strength is his excitement and willingness to learn the position,” Head Coach Frank Skawinski said, “He was both a new player and just learning how to play goalie last year as a sophomore which can be very tough for a first year high school player.” 

Balu’s positive attitude has made an impact beyond his performance. Whether in practice or under pressure he keeps the morale of the team high.

“Walat is a good communicator, hard worker, and always shows up with a smile,” Skawinski said. “The defense gets excited when he makes a great save, which he has done a lot this year on crease shots.”

The lacrosse team currently has a record of  4-5, winning two games against Wilbur Cross and wins against Ledyard and Norwich Tech.

“With Walat in goal there is a great chance we make the playoffs,” sophomore Eli Fernandez said.

The team needs just three wins to make the state playoffs which is the goal Balu has set.

“The goal for the rest of the season is to win as much as possible,” Balu said. “We should win each game that we should and steal some games that we shouldn’t win, if we do this we should make the playoffs.”

Balu has improved greatly since beginning to play the sport as a sophomore.

“Walat plays with much more confidence, is much better at managing outside shots, and his throwing and running clears have improved,” Assistant Coach Manual Rosales said. ”He also asks for and listens to feedback.”

His growth in these areas have made him more reliable in the cage and a key player in the defensive success.

“Walat has grown to be a focused player who leads by his actions, but also has become more verbal in leading the defense,” Rosales said.

Balu is a leader on the defense, bringing energy and focus while keeping his teammates locked in.

“Walat is a huge part of our team,” sophomore Charlie Gombrewicz said. “Without him I don’t know how good the team would be.”

Balu’s mindset and leadership play a big role in his success.

“Being in the right mindset helps me play my best,” Balu said. “This is my top priority because it will either make or break you.”

Balu’s confidence and mindset helps him and the team perform at a higher level. Balu credits his improvements to film study, communication, and mental preparation.

“I have improved in communicating with my teammates, fixing little habits that ruin my game and affect how I play by watching film,” Balu said. “Something I have fixed recently is having more confidence in my ability to play.”