Orange Lutheran senior Jack Jonkman got his start playing lacrosse in middle school, and it is the team camaraderie that has turned the sport into a passion.
 
"I just love my teammates and my coach," says Jonkman. "We have good bonds, and we're all super close to each other."
 
Jonkman plays both attack and midfielder for the Lancers, and he enjoys being involved in all aspects of scoring and putting his team in a position to win. As a senior leader, the four-year varsity player is also relied on to set the tone for the younger players in the program.
 
"I want to be a good representative for our school and this program," says Jonkman. "I want other younger kids to come into this program and really enjoy it."
 
The Lancers are headed to the postseason this week and will face off in Round 1 against Northwood on May 1. Jonkman's goal for this season is shared by his teammates – earn the program's first CIF championship.
 
"I want to keep improving throughout the season for my team," says Jonkman. "And we want to get a ring this year, for sure."
 
Having played lacrosse for several years has not been without its challenges, including hitting improvement plateaus. Jonkman has faced those challenges head on by putting in extra time with outside skills training, which has helped him to improve his game and make an immediate impact on both the team and the program.

"JJ is a true asset to our team in multiple facets," says OLu boys lacrosse head coach John Padama. "He's the type of athlete you can place in any position on the field, and he'll excel. But most importantly, he'll do so with tremendous enthusiasm and a smile on his face. JJ has been an essential factor in our success this season, not only for his on-field capabilities but also for his enormous heart and passion for the game. This young man embodies resilience, unity and camaraderie, helping to transform our team from a group of athletes into a brotherhood."

The opportunity to play lacrosse has given Jonkman more than just the game experience. The 18-year old acknowledges that the sport has also allowed him to grow both in skill and in character.
 
"Probably my communication skills and integrity with my teammates," says Jonkman of what lacrosse has taught him.
 
And the opportunity to be a student athlete at OLu has allowed Jonkman to play lacrosse in a setting where he can share his faith.
 
"I have a lot of faith in Christ, and I like to set a good example for others in the program to follow the same path," says Jonkman.
 
Looking ahead to after graduation, Jonkman plans to study fire science en route to becoming a firefighter. And depending on which school he chooses, he would be open to playing lacrosse for a club team.
 
No matter his next steps, it is his family that remains Jonkman's biggest supporters.
 
"My parents, they're always there for me," says Jonkman. "And my grandparents, I can always look to them. Whenever I need them, they're there to comfort me."