The men’s lacrosse team has been working extremely hard in the off-season to make it back to the top of the Northeast-10.

Last season, the resilient team ended with a record of 12-2, being undefeated in the conference until their devastating final loss to Merrimack 6-7, in the semi-finals of champion play. This loss was unexpected, but has taught the team a valuable lesson that they have carried with them into the upcoming spring season.

“Our players and coaches were very disappointed with how our season ended last season.  We learned a valuable lesson — you never know when you played your last game,” said head coach Dan Sheehan, who has led the team to focus and work hard for the upcoming season.

During the off-season, the team has mostly been focusing on building strength. They have spent a majority of their time in the weight room as a team.

“Bigger, stronger, faster always helps,” Sheehan said.

Last spring the team lost a number of talented student-athletes, yet they have “also returned with a ton of potential,” Sheehan said. Of the returning players, Le Moyne has 30 letterwinners and four returning starters among the ranks.

“I am pleased with the progress our newcomers have made during fall ball and winter break,” Sheehan said of the new recruits.

With many competitive teams in the league, the Dolphins look to become the top competitors, making every game count.

“With the history of our program we remain the game on everyone’s schedule that could make their seasons a success,” Sheehan said. ”The competitiveness of our conference increases every year.”

The team hopes to build off their final loss last year, focusing on coming back strong and shooting for the top of the league.

“We do have the bar set high. Our student-athletes strive to be the best on and off the field. On the field these young men are committed to being successful at the highest level,” Sheehan said.

Of the upcoming season, Sheehan said he is feeling positive and proud of the team he has.

“I am very pleased with the attitude and work ethic of this year’s team,” he said. ”It is going to take a total team effort to get ourselves back to the top of D-II.”

The ‘Phins’ first game will be away against Seton Hall on Saturday, Feb. 18, with the first home game against St. Rose on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 1 p.m.