News Summary

In San Clemente, high school athlete Colin Kohl excels in both lacrosse and football, earning prestigious accolades and preparing for a collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His impressive stats and leadership qualities have solidified his reputation as a two-sport star, leaving behind a legacy of success as he graduates in 2024.

Colin Kohl from San Clemente High Shines in Dual Sports and Heads to Wisconsin-Madison

In the sunny city of San Clemente, one remarkable high school athlete is wrapping up his senior year with an impressive portfolio of achievements. Colin Kohl has made waves this season as a standout player in both lacrosse and football, cementing his status as a true two-sport star. With graduation set for 2024, Kohl has gained recognition for his incredible skills and dedication, already prepping himself for the next chapter as he gears up to play lacrosse at the prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison this fall.

A Dual Phenomenon

Kohl’s talent for lacrosse was undeniable as he was honored as the CIF-SS Division 2 Player of the Year last season. This accolade sets him apart, especially since achieving All-CIF honors in two different sports is quite a rare feat. He not only made headlines in lacrosse but also played a pivotal role for the San Clemente Tritons football team, where he led in rushing and touchdowns. He scored a total of 18 touchdowns in football while racking up 630 rushing yards and adding 295 receiving yards alongside three receiving touchdowns.

Turning Point: A Leap into Lacrosse

Interestingly, Kohl’s journey in lacrosse wasn’t a given. He initially grew up loving football, starting with flag football at just six years old. However, contemplating his future in football left him uncertain about competing at the college level. A simple push from friends led him to try his hand at lacrosse during his freshman year—a decision that would change the course of his athletic career dramatically.

Defining His Game

When he first picked up a lacrosse stick, Kohl relied heavily on his footwork and aggression, traits he had honed from his football days. Over the years, he transformed into a physical defender, using the toughness learned on the football field to become the center of San Clemente’s defense. This past season, he proved to be a key player on the backline during the Tritons’ journey to the CIF-SS Division 2 championship—a thrilling accomplishment culminating in a nail-biting 8-7 victory over Dos Pueblos High.

Record-Breaking Season

As the Tritons finished their lacrosse season with an impressive 15-6 record, Kohl’s hard work paid off. He collected 42 ground balls during the season and earned a spot on the All-Orange County first team. His surprise at receiving the Player of the Year award underlines just how extraordinary his defensive contributions were; defense is rarely recognized in such awards. The Tritons’ defensive squad was exceptional, allowing an average of only five goals per game.

Memorable Moments and Leadership

Kohl’s football highlights further showcase his multifaceted skills. A standout moment was when he scored three touchdowns in a single game against Edison High, all while battling pneumonia, reflecting his enduring spirit and toughness. He credits his success in both sports to strong teammates and his supportive coach, Brendan Finnerty, whose guidance was invaluable throughout his athletic journey.

A Bright Future Ahead

As he maneuvers through his senior year, Kohl balanced athletics with top-notch academic performance, a combination that profoundly influenced his choice to join Wisconsin-Madison. Impressed by the university’s academic offerings and campus atmosphere, he aims to make significant contributions to the Badgers’ lacrosse program.

Parting with Pride

Kohl is leaving San Clemente High with a memorable legacy that includes dual All-CIF honors, a CIF championship ring, and countless cherished moments spent on and off the field. With such an impressive track record, there’s no doubt that he has a bright future ahead in athletics and beyond.

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