Vikings boys’ lacrosse aims for playoff return

It’s a new season with a new sense of inspiration and optimism for the Vernon High School boys’ lacrosse program.

The Vikings are scheduled to open the regular season with a home game versus Roxbury on Saturday, March 28.

“We are looking to improve from last season and get back in the playoffs after not making it last year,’’ Vernon coach Adam Coleman said. “We’re looking to improve our record in our Division from last year as well. We have a lot of returning varsity experience that will help us in these situations.’’

Among those varsity experienced players returning for the Vikings are Dean Grundy (senior, midfield), Branden Curley (senior, midfield), Nick Curry (sophomore, attack), Andrew Geisen (junior, midfield), Ethan Maldonado (senior, defense) and Jackson Moore (junior, defense).

Promising newcomers include Jack Paton (junior, attack), Collin Sensbach (sophomore, attack), Connor Pych (junior, short stick defense), Dylan Noah (sophomore, defense), Chace Teiner (sophomore, midfield), Logan Clayton (sophomore, long stick midfield) and Pat Naughton (sophomore, midfield).

Strong leadership could be a key component in favor of the Vikings this spring season.

“Connor Pych is a great vocal leader,’’ Coleman said. “Dean is a hard worker and helps the younger players.’’

Vernon posted four wins in 2025. This season they compete in the NJILL Polley Division with Delaware Valley, Lenape Valley, Kittatinny, Mount Olive, Morris Hills, West Milford and Newton.

“We will look to improve and be more competitive,’’ Coleman said. “We lost a lot of close games last year and we need to flip those around. Our Division is competitive across the board. All Division games were tight between all of us except the Vernon versus Newton matchup.’’