St. Mary's Dusts Off Leylegian Cup

as Opperman Waxes Defense

By:Grandmaster LAX

It's not the Cup that Maradona and Ronaldo want, or the one Gretzky and Lemieux chase in the spring, but without fail every February The Leylegian Cup is up for grabs to the winner of the St. Mary's and Claremont (Ca.) College lacrosse game. Recently discovered after a two year hibernation in the garage of a Claremont alumnus, the Leylegian Cup was on hand last Saturday as the St. Mary's Gaels rolled over Claremont 14-3 to claim the prize on a rainy afternoon.

The victory marked the first appearance this season at attack for senior Pat Opperman, who had returned to defensemen after playing crease last season due to injury. Fellow senior, defensemen Nolan Arieta found Opperman for an early fast break goal, one of Pat's five on the afternoon. "We benefited from many man-up opportunities," said Coach Sasha Dansky. "Thanks to the uncontrolled Claremont sticks." Freshmen Willy Shaeffer also impressed with a four goal break out performance that bodes well for the program's future.

Explosive scoring aside, what really pleased Coach Dansky was that the Gaels stayed away from the offside and illegal procedure penalties that plagued the team against U.C. Davis. "We came out fired up to play some good lacrosse," said Dansky. "The entire team hustled and played well."

The Gaels take on Chico State and Humboldt State this weekend. Log on to eastbaysports.com early next week for all the stats and stories.

St. Mary's Mens Lacrosse Schedule