Lacrosse star gets first taste of fame

St. Dominic High School incoming senior Jake Kiernan got his first taste of the big time when he participated in the 2012 Champion All-American lacrosse showcase July 22-27 as part of the ESPN High School Games.

Kiernan, a standout defender for the Bayhawks and bound for Drexel University next year, was one of 96 players nationwide selected for the event through an application process. He played in front of the ESPNU cameras at the ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla., and was part of the winning Freedom Team.

“It was everything I thought it would be,” said Kiernan, who as a sophomore in 2011 helped St. Dominic’s capture the CHSAA title. “It was a neat experience.”

Bayhawks varsity lacrosse coach Matt O’Brien made the trip to watch Kiernan contribute to four victories for the Freedom Team. “It was a tremendous experience for Jake, and he stood out in my opinion,” O’Brien said. “He’s an aggressive and smooth defender, and I thought he did a great job. Besides his talent level, he’s a real leader. He represented our school with honor and dignity.”

Kiernan, who had 33 points for the Bayhawks last season despite spending a large portion of time on defense, said the trip met his expectations. The championship game was played in stifling heat, with temperatures on the field exceeding 105 degrees. “It was so hot,” he said. “All of us were sitting down during stoppages and doing whatever we could to stay cool.

With his travel team season also complete, Kiernan said the next thing on his agenda is his final season at St. Dominic’s next spring. “We’re bringing back almost everyone,” he said. “I’m hoping to go out with another title.”