Orange Lutheran senior Nolan Connelly grew up playing a range of sports, but lacrosse always stood out, thanks in part to his father, who is a former high school lacrosse state champion.

After getting his start in the sport at age eight, Connelly played midfield his first two years at OLu before moving to attack, where he has thrived on the offensive side of the game. He enjoys the team aspect of such a niche sport.

"It's a large team, and the sport really forces you to work as a team," says Connelly. "And it's unique… so, it's nice to play a sport that not a lot of people know of, and you can try and get people to play it. I just think it's so much fun."

Connelly is serving as a captain for the Lancers this season and with a roster of younger players, he is helping to develop the program's next wave of talent.

"I've learned a lot from past players, and they really made an impact on me," says Connelly. "I want to set an example by showing up to practice early, focusing on coaching points, listening to the coaches and listening to teammates. I hope I can inspire them to be the best of their ability." 

OLu lacrosse head coach John Padama-Rooney has had the privilege of coaching Connelly since elementary school and he believes what sets the four-year varsity player apart is his resilience and selfless commitment to the team. 

"What I have appreciated most about Nolan's growth is the way he has matured without losing who he is," says Padama-Rooney. "He brings a great sense of humor to the group and has a natural ability to keep things loose, but he has also developed a strong sense of accountability and purpose. There is a steadiness to him that reflects his character and his faith, and that balance has allowed him to connect with his teammates in an authentic way.

"Nolan's leadership is distinctive. He may not be the most vocal presence, but he has an innate ability to establish and uphold the standard every day, something his teammates recognize and respond to."

Connelly is back this spring after an ACL injury, a recovery that was difficult for him, both mentally and physically. The patience required to return to the field in just six months and be ready for his senior season is part of what the 18-year old has learned from playing the sport. The experience also challenged him to grow in his faith.

"Trusting in his plan was something I had to wrap my head around when I was injured," says Connelly. "My mom said you don't have to worry about it as much as you think. God has a plan, and it's all taken care of. You've just got to go along for the ride. Things will end up the way they should. Everything has a purpose."

Connelly has enjoyed the brotherhood that comes with playing lacrosse for OLu, as well as contributing to a growing program that is on the rise. He considers it an honor to represent the Lancers each time he takes the field.

"We have such a tight bond here," says Connelly. "Just being able to share our faith with each other in such a tight-knit community. The team is super close."

Connelly will attend the University of Oklahoma, where he plans to study professional flight aviation at his dream school and program. He credits his two older brothers, Dean and Brendan, both former lacrosse players, with helping pave his path in the sport. And he is equally grateful for the example set by his parents, who, along with his brothers, have been his most influential role models.

"Whenever I need help on anything, I know I can turn to my family, and somebody's got the answer for me," says Connelly. "It's really great to be in that close, very tight family where you can talk to anyone about anything."