As we look forward to the 2026 season and celebrating 20 YEARS of Big Walnut Lacrosse in 2027, we are rallying behind a theme that reflects our pride as Golden Eagles, our mission, and our commitment to teaching life lessons through sport.

That theme?

“Alone we are good. Together we are golden.”

In the coming weeks and months, you’ll see that throughout our communications, on our spring hoodies, and more.

Why? 

Well, in youth sports, from elementary to high school, it's easy to get caught up in individual stats, highlight reels, and personal accolades. Social media doesn’t help. As adults, we see other parents’ posting their kid’s great plays, what travel team they are playing for, and what tournament or event they are attending. Let’s be honest. That comparison can be hard. And we’re adults. Imagine the pressure on the kids when they see that stuff. It’s tough, there’s no doubt.

While individual skill development is very important, we believe that true excellence — the "golden" standard — is only reached when we embrace the power of the team. 

Individual talent can make a player "good," but it is everyone’s effort that makes a team "golden." 

In 2026, we want to move the conversation away from "How did my child do?" to "How did the team grow?" By focusing on being part of something bigger than ourselves, we teach our kids as athletes that their value isn't just in a goal scored or saved, a face-off won or lost, a ground ball scooped or missed, but in how they support the teammate next to them.

We know how much parents care. Your support is the engine that keeps this program running. 

But remember, it’s their game, not ours.

The pressure to perform for the sake of adult expectations can often lead to burnout. It’s a horrible truth that a vast majority of kids quit sports altogether by the age of 13. 13! That’s way too young. Want to know why they’re quitting? Because it’s not fun anymore. How sad is that?

We want to focus on excellence over perfection and help our young athletes navigate the challenges of the sport without the weight of needing to be perfect for anyone. 

Our primary goal remains getting as many kids playing as possible, for as long as possible, in the best conditions possible. This happens when kids feel the joy of the game rather than the pressure of individual scrutiny.

The life lessons learned on the field — handling a tough loss, respecting a referee’s whistle, and working through a difficult practice — are the real "gold" of youth sports. 

Think of our season like a lacrosse assist. A player who scores a goal is "good," but the "golden" moment is the unselfish pass that set them up. Just as a single player cannot win a game without a defense to back them up or a midfielder to transition the ball, our athletes reach their highest potential when they put teamwork and learning before individual achievement. In 2026, we are building a program where the "gold standard" isn't measured by a single name on a stat sheet, but by how well we work together to elevate every Golden Eagle on the field,.

When we prioritize the team experience, we develop not just quality lacrosse players, but proud members of the Big Walnut community. We focus on instilling values that go far beyond the scoreboard, including sportsmanship, discipline, responsibility, and respect for officials, coaches, and teammates.

As we prepare for the coming spring season, let’s commit to this golden standard together. Let’s celebrate the "we" over the "me" and ensure that the focus remains on a fun, safe, and positive experience for every child.

Alone, our players are talented and certainly “good.” 

But when we stand together, as players, coaches, and parents, we are truly golden.