Mercer lacrosse coach Jason Childs says he can be short on patience, and isn't a big fan of moral victories. So the Bears' one win campaign was likely tough on the first time head coach. But Childs says he was pleased with the progress made in year one.
With history in the books the Bears enter year two Saturday with a visit from Ohio State. Childs likes where his team has come since last spring, and the fall season.
The Bears have over 20 newcomers, and once again are young, with just one junior and one senior. Their only victory in 2011 came over division III Carthage. Mercer isn't backing away from tough competition in year two, with a matchup against UNC on Sunday. Childs says they won't be in awe like they were a year ago. Instead, they're ready to compete.
"If we're going to be awesome in lacrosse, if we're going to be a great program then we've got to beat some of these other great programsm," Childs said. "I think we can do that. I'm pleased with where we are in our development. Certainly we have a long way to go but we've come a very, very long way quicker than I thought we would have."
"Playing Duke last year we instantly got the feeling of those top tier teams," sophomore midfielder Sam Grayson said. "I think we know how to handle them a little better this year, and honestly I don't think we're scared. We're ready for them."
Mercer hosts Ohio State Saturday at 1:00 p.m. A year go the Buckeyes topped the Bears 20-2. Childs' team meets up with UNC Sunday at 1:00 p.m. in Atlanta.