The varsity men’s lacrosse preseason officially began the week of , the first step in what the Bolles Bulldogs hope to bring. Coming off a strong 18–6 record last season, the Dogs enter the year with confidence, experience, and high expectations. Notable wins over Episcopal School of Jacksonville, Wando High School of South Carolina, and Oak Hall highlighted the past 

season, along with a Final Four appearance that proved Bolles could compete with top programs from both inside and outside the state.

Leading the charge once again is Head Coach Tom West, a Ponte Vedra legend who is entering his fourth season for Bolles. In each of his previous four years at Bolles, West has reached the Final Four, building a culture of discipline, toughness, and consistency. “We don’t shy away from expectations,” West said. “They’re earned. But every year is a new team, and nothing carries over unless you put the work in.”

That work begins with what the team calls “Hell Week,” the opening five days of preseason training. Offensive coordinator Coach Ivy Stucker describes the mindset behind the demanding work. “You have to crawl before you run.” Hell Week is designed to push players physically and mentally, focusing on conditioning, agility, coordination, flexibility, and overall endurance. The goal is not just to get back into shape, but to make the foundation for the long season ahead and build chemistry.

Monday January 12 served as the day that set the tone. Players hit the field early for baseline conditioning tests, long-distance runs, and timed yard bursts. “Today is about accountability,” West explained. “We’re finding out who’s willing to compete when they’re uncomfortable.” While the conditioning was demanding, it shows that effort and attention to detail matter from day one.

On Tuesday, the intensity increased. Practices centered on speed and agility, with ladder drills, shuttle runs, and fast change direction work, mixed with broad jumps for power and stability. Players were expected to maintain sharp fundamentals despite heavy legs. “Your body might be tired, but the game doesn’t slow down for you,” Ivy said. “We’re training our guys to stay disciplined even when they’re exhausted.” The players echoed that statement, noting that Tuesday challenged both their conditioning and focus.

By Wednesday, the Bulldogs reached what many players called the hardest day of the week. Extended conditioning circuits were paired with competitive drills that tested endurance and mental toughness. “This is the valley,” West said,  “Every season has peaks and valleys. What matters is how you respond when you’re in the middle of the grind.” Despite the fatigue, energy remained high, and teammates pushed one another to finish every rep strong.

Thursday brought a slight shift in approach. While conditioning remained a priority, more time was devoted to positional drills, communication, and early team concepts. Players began to see how individual effort loops into team success. “You can feel us coming together,” said Will Martel ‘26. “We’re tired, but everyone’s locked in, and that’s what makes it worth it.”  

The last day was not on the field but rather took place in the film room with heart-to-heart talks from the coaches, as well as good moral values and lessons to take away. And it all ended with dozens of delicious Dunkin’ Donuts to celebrate the end of Hell Week.

As the Bulldogs move forward into the rest of the preseason, the message remains consistent. Progress is not always straightforward, and success comes from trusting the process. “When times get tough, that’s when growth happens,” West said. “If we stay committed through the valleys, the peaks will take care of themselves.”

With Hell Week complete, Bolles has officially taken its first step toward another run at a state championship. The road ahead will not be easy, but if this preseason is any indication then the Bulldogs are prepared to face whatever adversity comes their way.