For Amador Valley athlete Alexander Michail, lacrosse has been more than a sport for eight years. It has been a challenge, a passion, and ultimately a pathway to college. What started as a backup plan when football wasn’t an option eventually became a defining part of his life.
“I’ve been playing for about eight years. I never was that good until last year, [but] if you take 30 minutes each day just practicing the basics, you’ll be a great player. Lacrosse is a lot like math-once you figure out the basics, even the most complex problems become a breeze,” said Michail.
Michail has built up his strength, skills, confidence, and confidence as a lacrosse player over the years. The hard work has transformed him into a leader, allowing him to help his team shine in the North Coast Section Championships. However, this moment was the culmination of growth and commitment over the season, which Michail commited to as the team’s goalie.
“[I led] Amador’s lacrosse team to the first NCS appearance we’ve had since 2016 [as a goalie]…Goalie is definitely one of the hardest positions because it’s physical and mental. You need both, not one or the other,” said Michail.
Responsible for keeping the other team from scoring, Michail can’t afford to hesitate. Despite the high pressure on the field, he still found a home in the fast, intense, and strategic game.
“It’s 10 v. 10 nine players and one goalie on a field about the size of a regular football field and a faceoff is taken in the middle of the field after every goal. The team with the most goals wins,” said Michail.
Taking the game further
Simple on paper, but incredibly complex at full speed, lacrosse requires communication, athleticism, and a sharp mind. All that hard work put into lacrosse games and practices paid off when Michail committed to Cornell College.
“It was one of the best feelings. All the work I put in finally came through, and I feel less stressed because I don’t have to do any more applications,” said Michail.
Relief and pride mix together as he speaks of evidence that years of effort really mattered. For younger athletes or anyone hoping to follow in a similar path, he says something quite simple. echoes a coach in reminding one of the importance of consistency. What sounds like a metaphor doubles as his personal philosophy: do the small things right, and the big things will follow. He also wants future college athletes to keep perspective.
Michail’s personal philosophy is “do the small things right, and the big things will follow.” With this mindset, he believes others can follow a similar path with effort and consistency. Despite his athletic accomplishments, Michail places just as much emphasis on academics.
“There’s always a place for everyone who wants to play sports in college. It’s cool if you get offered, but you have to remember that this is also where you’re getting your education,” said Michail.
After eight years, countless practices, and perseverance, Michail embodies the message: work hard, believe in your own improvement, and never forget the bigger picture. Lacrosse might have initially been Michail’s alternate choice, but it has grown into a door to opportunity, pride, and the story of who he has become.
