Rising Stars and New Leadership in 2025

As the 2025 lacrosse season approaches, the Marcus Whitman Wildcats are eager to build upon their progress from last year. Following an 8-10 record in the previous season, the Wildcats are focused on turning their fortunes around with a fresh sense of optimism and determination.

Key Losses and Graduated Seniors

The team bids farewell to several key seniors from the class of 2024 who made significant contributions to the team. Melkamu Blueye, the Finger Lakes Midfielder (FL-West) Player of the Year, racked up 26 goals and 9 assists. Harry Kestler, All-League 2nd Team Defense (FL-West), was a stalwart in the defensive line. Other graduates include Reiner Gallogly, Teague Gallogly, Gabe Johnson, Micah Kephart, Jared Lee, and Ethan MacLennan. These players were integral to the team's defense and offense, and their absence will be felt.

Returning Standouts and Rising Stars

Despite losing a strong senior class, the Wildcats retain several standout players who earned accolades last year. Tariku Blueye, the Finger Lakes Attackman (FL-West) Player of the Year, scored 44 goals and provided 24 assists. Ayden Clark, who was named All-League 3rd Team Attack (FL-West), contributed 37 goals and 9 assists. Myles Prendergast, All-League 1st Team Defense (FL-West), was a key defender for the team. Logan Storms, who earned a spot on the All-League 3rd Team Midfield (FL-West), chipped in with 6 goals and 10 assists. These returning players will be crucial in leading the team on both ends of the field. The Wildcats also look forward to contributions from their rising seniors, juniors, and sophomores, who will step up to fill the gaps left by the graduated seniors.

Coaching and Leadership

The Wildcats welcome a new head coach, DeCouteau Blueye (pronounced "Dakota"), who brings a deep understanding of the game's culture and history. At 24 years old, Coach Blueye is a Native American from the Hopi/Seneca Nations. Having played lacrosse since he could walk and hold a lacrosse stick, Coach Blueye's passion for the sport runs deep. He has two younger brothers adopted from Ethiopia, and this year, he has the unique opportunity to coach his youngest brother Tariku for the next two years. Coach Blueye is an alumnus of the program and has been involved with the leadership of the Marcus Whitman lacrosse program for several years, including serving as an assistant coach for the modified program over the last two years. His familiarity with the team's dynamics and his commitment to fostering a positive and competitive environment will be invaluable in his new role.

Season Outlook

The 2025 season holds promise for Marcus Whitman, with a mix of experienced players and new talent. The team aims to improve their record by leveraging their returning players' experience and the fresh perspective brought by their new coach who states "You have to be comfortable with uncomfortable".

While the previous season saw a mix of highs and lows-highlighted by wins against Haverling, Gananda, Newark, Midlakes-Red Jacket, Brockport, Bishop Kearney, and Bloomfield-Honeoye-the Wildcats are determined to turn close games into victories and compete fiercely in the Finger Lakes League.

With a strong returning core, a motivated coaching staff, and the support of the Marcus Whitman community, the Wildcats are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 lacrosse season.

Preseason stories are based on information from SportsFive.NET databases and coaches.

Stories are planned for each of the teams in Section V and will be released, a few at a time, between now and the start of the playing season. The stories will remain on the front page for about one week and then will be available in the NEWS archive. There will be links for all the published stories HERE and a link will also be available on each TEAM PAGE.