News Summary

In San Diego, the Torrey Pines High School lacrosse team is poised to chase a remarkable seventh consecutive CIF title. Under the leadership of Coach Jono Zissi, the team has cultivated resilience and camaraderie, shaping young athletes on and off the field. Zissi’s journey began with skepticism but evolved into a thriving program. The values instilled among players echo beyond sports, highlighting teamwork and personal growth. As they gear up for the upcoming championship, the Torrey Pines lacrosse community exemplifies dedication and unity in pursuit of excellence.

Thrilling Times in San Diego: Torrey Pines Lacrosse Eyes Another Championship

In the vibrant city of San Diego, the energy is high and the excitement is palpable as the Torrey Pines High School lacrosse team gears up for what could be a historic seventh consecutive CIF title. Led by the dedicated and passionate coach Jono Zissi, this program has not only seen success on the field but has also fostered a culture of resilience and profound life lessons that impact players well beyond the sport.

The Journey of a Lacrosse Advocate

When Zissi first introduced the game of lacrosse in 2004, he wasn’t met with cheers but rather a fair share of chuckles. Standing before young children in P.E. classes, he took a bold step promoting a sport that has often played second fiddle to giants like football, basketball, and baseball on the West Coast. Many dismissed it as a passing phase, but Zissi was determined to turn that skepticism into excitement.

While pursuing a master’s degree at the University of San Diego, he didn’t just focus on his studies; he plunged deeper into the lacrosse community, enhancing his grip on the sport. Over the years, Zissi has continuously contributed to youth lacrosse, serving as a youth instructor for West Coast Starz since 2006 and nurturing young talents who would one day don the Torrey Pines colors.

Success and Life Lessons

Fast forward to 2025, and Zissi’s squad can proudly boast a robust lacrosse program that has propelled several players to compete at the Division 1 level. One of the cornerstones of their achievement lies in Zissi’s belief that the game’s rankings don’t define the team’s spirit or purpose. He emphasizes the larger mission at hand—playing for something greater than oneself. This mantra resonates deeply among his players, instilling a sense of unity and purpose within the team.

Especially impactful are Zissi’s own experiences with loss. He faced the heartache of three one-goal championship defeats, but instead of allowing these losses to defeat him, he transformed them into profound teaching moments. These challenges have shaped him into the coach he is today, fostering strength and determination in both himself and his players. The lessons learned from these trials are etched into the fabric of the Torrey Pines lacrosse program.

Alumni and Their Imprint

The true impact of Zissi’s coaching is reflected in the words of former players, like Miles Botkiss, a senior at Harvard. Botkiss recalls the electrifying Friday night games and the important life lessons learned through the sport, many of which were imparted during his time at Torrey Pines. The bonds created during these formative years transcend the sport, with Zissi often attending the weddings of former players, celebrating their lives and milestones.

Current team captain John Prior, who’s set for West Point, appreciates the elite culture fostered by Zissi. The motto “Leave it better than you found it” encapsulates the team’s ethos, reminding them to contribute positively both on and off the field. This guiding principle has cultivated a tight-knit community, emphasizing the significance of teamwork and camaraderie.

Outstanding Achievements

Among those making waves in the Torrey Pines lacrosse community is standout goalie Andrew Cook. Recognized as the USA Lacrosse High School Boys’ West Player of the Year, Cook has racked up an impressive 601 saves and has been key in leading the team to four consecutive championships. His dedication and leadership have not only earned him accolades but also a place at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University to continue his lacrosse journey.

This combination of athletic prowess, teamwork, and the deep connections fostered in Torrey Pines lacrosse is what makes them a formidable opponent and a respected program in the lacrosse community. As they prepare for yet another CIF title run, one thing is crystal clear: under Coach Jono Zissi’s leadership, the Torrey Pines lacrosse teams don’t just play the game—they write stories of growth, resilience, and lasting friendships.

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