At the age of 12, and with a bit of a nudge from a friend, Chase Anderson decided to try lacrosse. A game known for its quickness and intensity, lacrosse didn’t take long to hook him.
“I really enjoy the fast pace and physicality of the sport,” says Anderson. “Ever since I got into lacrosse, I’m always looking for that drive to get better, get more physical, build up my speed. That’s what keeps me interested.”
The senior at Servite High School is in his third year as a varsity player and plays the position of attack for the Friars, where his job focuses on creating opportunities for his team to score.
“It’s mainly all offense…very fast-paced,” says the 18-year-old. “You’ve got to be quick. You’ve got to be agile…just looking to try to help out the other teammates and trying to make the most of it.”
Anderson is in his second year serving as captain, and while he may have had a slow start in the sport, his dedication and drive to improve have not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff.
“A true Christian, son, brother, friend, teammate and athlete – I am proud to have Chase as the head captain and face of our program,” says Servite lacrosse head coach, Tom O’Leary. “His impact reaches people far beyond the lines of Courage Field, and he sets the bar high for those who wish to lead this program in the years to come.”
Anderson’s own view of his journey playing lacrosse has produced some perspective on the ideals of leadership and the role his family has played in helping him develop those skills.
“Off the field, I think it starts with my family. They’ve shown me how to lead myself in the classroom and on the field as well,” says Anderson. “And leadership skills are definitely what I’m learning from lacrosse…also being cooperative with my teammates. You all have to be on the same page to get to the next step, to get that next win.”
Anderson’s desire to lead extends into the community, where he is active in the National League of Young Men, a nonprofit organization that promotes the development of young men into community leaders. Anderson also works with the Assisteens by coaching soccer for players with special needs.
After high school, the Santa Ana resident plans to pursue a business degree and play club lacrosse, most likely at the University of Colorado Boulder. Grateful for his parents, he continues to be inspired by their commitment.
“My parents are definitely my role models, because of what they’ve sacrificed for me and what they’ve given me throughout my life,” says Anderson. “I feel like I’ve learned how to be motivated, and how to deal with the real world. They’re my real inspiration.”