There’s a new coach leading the Mountain Ridge boys lacrosse team, and he has his players feeling positive about the 2025 season. 

Justin Rigby was hired to take over the program. He inherited a team that went 5-12 last season and finished fifth in Region 2 with a 3-7 record. The year before, the sentinels were 6-11 overall and 3-3 in league play. Despite the recent struggles, Mountain Ridge has high hopes this season. Players and coaches are eager to see what the team is made of. 

“The team is energized and eager for the season to begin,” Rigby said. “With a strong core of returning players and a fresh perspective from the new coaching staff, there’s a renewed sense of enthusiasm and focus. The offseason was highly productive, with players committing to strength training, conditioning and sharpening their fundamentals. The transition to the new coaching system has been smooth, and the team has embraced the changes with a determined mindset. There’s a strong sense of unity and a shared goal of competing at a high level. We’re looking forward to testing ourselves against the competition in the state.”

Rigby was complimentary of the previous coaching staff and those players who have helped build the program since boys lacrosse was sanctioned as a high school sport in 2021. 

“Our primary goal is to elevate the program and build on Mountain Ridge’s strong tradition established by previous coaching staff and alumni,” he said. “Competing for a region title is always a priority, but our success will be defined by consistent growth and development throughout the season. We’ve set clear team goals that emphasize improving fundamentals, increasing lacrosse IQ and building team chemistry. By focusing on these areas, we aim to play our best lacrosse when it matters most—at the end of the season.”

Rigby’s excited to see his team continue to evolve and be ready to compete against the top teams in the region and Class 6A. So far, he has been impressed with the defense. 

“To start the season, our defense looks strong, bringing intensity every day while improving their footwork and physicality,” Rigby said. Rigby is focusing on improving the offense and its production. He said there are talented players in the offensive lineup but the players “need to gel together.” 

“We’re focusing on improving our ball movement, shot selection and overall communication on the field,” Rigby said. “Additionally, we want to refine our transition game and capitalize on fast-break opportunities.”

As a new coach at Mountain Ridge, Rigby is grateful for the opportunity he has to lead the team. He praises his predecessors and appreciates the strong group of seniors on his squad. Rigby is intent on making this the best season possible and helping the players have a positive experience. 

“First, we want to acknowledge and appreciate the former coaching staff, led by head coach Trent Bangert,” Rigby said. “They laid a strong foundation when the school first opened, creating a great tradition and a passionate lacrosse community. Now, with our new coaching staff, I’m excited about the direction we’re heading. We bring diverse experiences in lacrosse, strength and conditioning and sports science, which have helped drive this team’s development. More importantly, we are united in our mission to elevate the players’ experience and set higher expectations for success. This year we have a large group of seniors and we want to make their final season unforgettable. Our focus is on developing them as athletes and leaders while ensuring they leave with lifelong memories, a strong work ethic and a deep love for the game.” λ