By Eli Davis, Maryland Athletics Communications
COLLEGE PARK, Md. -- With the 2016 regular season campaign nearing its close, the Maryland men's lacrosse program will honor its 14 seniors prior to taking on Rutgers Saturday afternoon.
Seniors Kyle Bernlohr and Bryan Cole, who have both been with the program for five years, reflected on their careers in College Park.
What are your thoughts leading up to senior day?
Kyle Bernlohr: It is definitely a long time coming being here for five years. I am definitely excited for it. I actually came in with the class above, but I have been through four years with this group of guys, too. It will definitely be a little bit emotional. Overall, it is going to be a great day.
Bryan Cole: Obviously being here for a little while, I have been through a few senior days. Last year's was a little emotional because those are guys that I came in with since I redshirted. A super emotional day. You can never look back on senior day as a negative thing. It is such a special moment, a special day to spend with your family. I am lucky enough to have my grandparents coming to the game, as well as my parents, so that is definitely a special feeling.
What is your favorite moment from being a Terp?
KB: Aside from everyday being with the guys in the locker room and team trips, I would say playing in the national championship last year was pretty fantastic. It is just a combination of everything, just being with the guys. Off the field stuff is just as special as the games. Practices and in the locker room, traveling with the guys is awesome.
BC: I would have to say senior day last year. Those are guys that were graduating that I came in with. Being able to share that moment with them and their families that I have known for four years now and have grown really close with is obviously tough to see them go. But knowing you still have a few more opportunities to get out and compete with them is certainly really special.
What is the best thing you have learned at Maryland?
KB: Just to stay humble and to stay focused. Just keep working hard and cherish the opportunities you get when they come.
BC: Time is short. I got an extra year to compete here. Just cherish every moment because you will never experience it again. I really try to take that to heart and cherish everyday with the team that we have.
What advice would you give to underclassmen?
KB: Don't give up on yourself. Have trust in your skills and know that if you put in the work, something will pay off at the end.
BC: Work hard. Listen to the coaches. Just be the best person and athlete you can be. Try to take everyday in stride and try to outwork everybody.
What does it mean to be a senior on the Maryland lacrosse team?
KB: You have a higher responsibility than everyone else. You have to set the example and then carry the younger guys with you and get everyone on the same page. It is that time of the year where everyone has to be on the same boat as far as persistent and effort in practices.
BC: You are kind of the middleman between the coaches and the underclassmen. I would say the basis of being a senior here is showing the younger guys what it means to be a Terp. And what it means to Be The Best, that is something we always say here.
