Malibu lacrosse ends historic season

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The Malibu High lacrosse team earned more victories this year than the past three seasons combined. Photo courtesy of Malibu High Lacrosse

The Malibu High School lacrosse team concluded its season after the second round of playoffs last week following a phenomenally successful campaign.

By Sam Rubinroit / Special to The Malibu Times

This season marked the fourth year since the Sharks converted from a club squad to a CIF sanctioned team, and their 12-5 record earned them more wins than the past three years combined.

“That was our goal,” senior Jackson Wirht said, “to win 11 games.”

The Sharks’ performance earned them second place in the league and a spot in the playoffs. In the first round, Malibu defeated Peninsula, 10-6. Wirht led the team with six goals, and Austin Scott, Riley O’Neill, Brett Deimer and Sean Ryan added one apiece. The victory marked the first CIF playoff win in the team’s four-year existence.

After defeating Peninsula, the Sharks faced a highly touted Palos Verdes team, and, despite battling hard, came away with a loss, 8-7. Ryan and O’Neill led the team with two goals apiece, and Wirht, Deimer, and senior Bram Sigman added one goal each.

While the Sharks may not have won the CIF title, they recognize that success must come in small increments. After only four years, the team is a legitimate playoff opponent.

“I feel that it was a great year for Malibu lacrosse,” Wirht said. “With a new coaching staff and senior leadership we were able to solidify Malibu’s position as a top contender in the Los Angeles area.”