Lake Region varsity boys’ lacrosse team captain and goal keeper Gabriel Lunt is a young man of integrity, Coach George Lawson says. 

“Gabe sets an example of leadership and personal strength for the entire team. Gabe has a lot of weight on his shoulders. He is one of only two seniors on a team of 25 that includes nine freshmen and 15 players with less than three years of experience,” Coach Lawson said. “Gabe alone must withstand the outcomes of this experience mix. He alone faces the shots that pepper him continuously.  He, more than anyone, feels the responsibility.”

Lake Region has lost four games in a row, facing both the state champion and runner up.  Gabe has faced over 40 shots per game on target, which is nearly one per minute of play. 

“Many of those have been right on top of him and he faces them fearlessly. This is enough to rattle anyone, but none, more than the goalie who must bare this burden,” Coach Lawson said. “Despite this, Gabe remains strong and he remains cheerful. He arrives early to practice every day. He leads the team in warmups and stretching. He intentionally strives to improve his game every day.”

For away games, Gabe organizes the bus as 25 players, gear bags and lacrosse sticks must be loaded in an efficient way. Upon return, he is the last one off the bus, making sure that no one left something behind and the trash is picked up. 

“He is the most helpful person on the team, though there are others following in his footsteps, and asks immediately if he can help when he sees any task that is in process,” Coach Lawson added. “Gabe Lunt is truly a team leader. He brings honor to himself, his family and the Lake Region High School community. He is a fine example of what it means to play lacrosse.”   

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Gabe is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player of the Week Profile

Athlete: Gabriel Lunt

Hometown: Naples

Year in School: Senior

Parents: Ed and Mary Lee Lunt

Sports you Play: Lacrosse and cross country

School Groups: Lake Region Vocational

Hobbies: Disc golf, being outside

Future plans: Going to work in construction

Q. What do you find most challenging about the sport? The most challenging thing about my sport is the mental aspect of it. It’s hard to keep a level head when you get scored on as a goalie, but you have to try and keep your head up.

Q. What goal did you set for yourself this season, and what will it take to reach that goal? The goal I set for myself this year was to have a better mindset and to try and have an average save percentage of about 50% or 60%.

Q. What is your favorite sports memory and/or achievement? My favorite memory is last year’s Senior Night because I got to play with the seniors that taught me how to play the sport and got to enjoy my last game with them.

Q. How has sports made you a better person? It has made me a better person because it has forced me to be a leader and be a good role model.

Q. Name a teammate or coach you admire? I would have to say Coach Vogel because he has been my coach for the last three years and has helped me get better at being a goalie and a role model.