by Lem Satterfield

Following a runner-up finish in last year's Class 2A-1A North Region finals, the Pikesville Panthers boys lacrosse team is looking to rebound under sixth-year coach Craig Campbell.

The Panthers return 17 varsity letter winners, seven of whom were starters last season, as they look to contend for their first Class 2A-1A state title since 2004.

Among them is star soccer player, Gary Weisbaum, on defense. Weisbaum is headed for the University of New Mexico to play soccer.

The Panthers, regional finalists over the past two years, begin their quest with a scrimmage at North Carroll of Carroll County on Wednesday.

On Saturday, the Panthers will play host to their Panther Invitational Tournament, featuring Chesapeake of Anne Arundel County, St. John's of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore County rival Owings Mills.

The schedule is as follows: Pikesville vs. Chesapeake at noon, followed by St. John's vs. Owings Mills at 2 p.m.

The consolation game will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the 7 p.m. championship game.

Pikesville boys' lacrosse, at a glance:

League: Baltimore County, Md. 2A/1A

Coach: Craig Campbell, sixth year

Last year's record/ playoff advancement: 6-11, 2A/1A North Region finalists

Top returners: Gary Weisbaum, Sr., D;  Jared Dechowitz, Jr., D; Ned Scher, Jr., M; Aaron Kovelman, Jr., A.

 

Top Newcomers: Erick Zarzecki, Jr., G; Max Linkoff, Jr., D; Jordan Parker, Jr., M.

 

Season Outlook: The Panthers return 17 lettermen, including seven starters from last season. After reaching the regional finals the past two years the Panthers expect to do well in the 2A/1A North and look to return to UMBC for the first time since their 2004 championship season.