News Summary

The Lake Norman Wildcats lacrosse team, under the leadership of Coach James Brugger, showcases a remarkable record with six state championships and an impressive league performance. Star player Brandon DeBerardinis leads the charge, with a commitment to Harvard and a strong mentorship role. The team continues to set high goals for the future, blending competition with personal growth.

Lake Norman Wildcats Lacrosse Continues Their Winning Ways

A Legacy of Success Under Coach James Brugger

Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Norman, the Wildcats lacrosse team has been making waves on the field, and a lot of that success can be attributed to their head coach, James Brugger. With roots from Long Island, New York, Brugger brings nearly two decades of experience to the Wildcats’ program. After spending four years as an assistant coach, he took over the helm in 2013 and has been leading the charge ever since.

One glance at the Wildcats’ record, and you’ll see it tells a story of dominance. Since Brugger arrived, the team has made it to six N.C. High School Athletic Association state championships, emerging victorious in two of those high-stakes games. The Wildcats are a force in their league, boasting an impressive **87-2 league record** that puts them at the top of the standings. In fact, they’ve clinched conference titles in 13 of the last 15 seasons—a remarkable feat in competitive high school sports!

The Rise of Star Player Brandon DeBerardinis

One of the standout talents on the Wildcats is Brandon DeBerardinis, who has captured the attention of college scouts with his impressive skills. A two-time all-state selection, DeBerardinis has committed to play lacrosse at Harvard and is recognized not just for his performance on the field but also for his leadership qualities. In a nail-biting finish against Cary Green Level, he scored three goals during the 11-10 overtime loss in the 2024 N.C. 4A state championship game.

But DeBerardinis is not just another talented athlete. He looks to follow in the footsteps of past Wildcats MVPs, like Kyle Gradert (2012) and Drew Elder (2018), who both played pivotal roles in securing their state titles. His ability to mentor younger players makes him an invaluable asset to the team. The current roster showcases eight future collegians, including talents like John Torpy committing to Loyola and Statton Reher heading to Catawba.

A Tradition of Excellence in Playoff Performance

Coach Brugger’s extensive experience has surely shaped the Wildcats into the formidable team they are today. He had the privilege of playing under two National Lacrosse Hall of Fame coaches, which has given him a wealth of knowledge that he passes on to his players. His previous stint as an assistant coach at C.W. Post College, where the team snagged the NCAA Division II national title in 1996, has undoubtedly contributed to the winning culture at Lake Norman.

When it comes to the playoffs, the Wildcats don’t shy away from challenges. With a remarkable total of 38 playoff victories, Lake Norman ranks second in the state, only trailing Cardinal Gibbons, who leads with 49. The Wildcats are also notable for their history of playoff appearances, boasting more entries—six in total—than most teams, underscoring a consistent presence in the competitive landscape.

Setting Goals High for the Future

Looking forward, Coach Brugger continually emphasizes that the team’s objectives go beyond just winning games. The Wildcats set their sights on both conference and state championships, a goal that keeps every player focused and hungry for success. The camaraderie, skill, and dedication displayed by the Wildcats not only make them a team to watch but also highlight what high school lacrosse is all about—the joy of competition, personal growth, and the drive to achieve greatness.

As they continue to build on their legacy, the Lake Norman Wildcats show no signs of slowing down. With a talented roster, experienced coaching staff, and a passion for the game, the Wildcats’ future looks as bright as ever.

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