Freshman Casey Bonner starts as a midfielder for boys varsity lacrosse

By Lilly Fabian
Staff Writer

Not only is he the only freshman on the team, but midfielder Casey Bonner has shown the upperclassmen of Costa varsity lacrosse that he belongs by earning a starting role on the team.

After receiving encouragement from close friend Cory Lund, Bonner started his lacrosse career in seventh grade. The two have been playing club lacrosse together ever since.

“My best friend throughout middle school told me to just try it out, and I have loved the game since I first picked up the stick,” Bonner said.

Bonner was the leading scorer for Costa this season with 31 goals and 37 assists, a feat that earned him a nomination for the All-Bay League team.

“Even though I’m the only freshman, the team is very supportive and makes me feel welcome,” Bonner said.

According coach Aaron Karsh, Bonner has an excellent left-handed shot and a special quickness that allows him to easily dodge defenders. He works hard and maintains a positive outlook throughout the game.

“Casey has a lot of potential, and we are looking forward to some big things from him in the next couple of years,” Karsh said.

Bonner says that he credits much of his success to his coaches who work to help him improve his skills, strength and speed.

“My coaches are very supportive and are always giving me tips to make my game better,” Bonner said.

In addition to playing lacrosse for Costa, Bonner is an active team member on three club lacrosse teams, including West Coast Starz, LAZERS and Brady’s Bunch. All three teams frequently travel to the east coast for tournaments during their summer and winter seasons, allowing Bonner to play teams from all over the country. During his time on the West Coast Starz, Bonner’s team won the East Coast Classic Tournament.

“On our club teams, we get top-of-the-line coaches from east coast DI players and pros,” Bonner said. “It is also a plus because we have more college coaches looking at us.”

Bonner practices five days a week for school and spends his weekends practicing with his club teams.

Bonner hopes to receive a lacrosse scholarship to either Duke, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Colgate, Syracuse or the University of Maryland, and he wants to major in business.

“I look forward to these next three years on Costa lacrosse,” Bonner said, “My teammates and coaches are great, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish.”