Athlete of the Week: Axel March, West Orange boys lacrosse

West Orange High boys lacrosse player Axel March’s 2024 season was one to remember. The senior captain surpassed the 500 career face-off wins milestone, won an average of 74.7% of his face-offs and helped lead the Warriors to their first district championship since 2017. West Orange finished the season with a 12-6 record.

Beyond his accomplishments on the field this season, March maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school and plans to continue his lacrosse career in college at Florida next season, as part of the Gators club team. 

The Basics 

Age: 17

Sport: Lacrosse

Grade: Senior

School: West Orange High

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week?

It feels great to be recognized; I give all the glory to God. I couldn’t do it without Him.

What do you like the most about lacrosse?

I love how inclusive the sport is. Regardless of size, shape or level of athleticism, there’s a position for everyone.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from lacrosse?

You can make up for lack of talent with hard work and technique.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Petey LaSalla. I watch a lot of his college highlights, and our play style is similar.

What is your favorite lacrosse memory?

Winning districts and hitting 500 career face-off wins in the same game.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

Macadamia nut Cliff Bar and a Fast Twitch energy drink.

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

I don’t listen to any music before games; I just pray in my locker, and I’m ready to go.

What is your favorite non-sports hobby?

Hanging out with friends.

What is your favorite subject in school?

History. It’s interesting and it’s knowledge you can use.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

My Bible to stay strong in my faith, my Chipotle order and my phone to play Subway Surfers.

What is your favorite movie?

“The Dark Knight” — great acting and storyline.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

Jesus. (It) would be infinitely amazing to hear Him teach and get to ask questions.

If you could go back in time, when and where would you go?

America pre-internet. I can’t imagine what it’s like, so I’d want to see.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Start playing lacrosse earlier.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

Did you figure out what job you want?

Who is your favorite superhero?

Spider-Man; he’s a teenager like me. His powers are sick, and his jokes are funny.

Who is your favorite supervillain?

Thanos; his quotes go crazy.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Super speed like the Flash; lacrosse would be super easy.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go?

Antarctica to see penguins in their natural habitat, Rome to see the Colosseum, and China to see the Great Wall.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

A dog, they look so comfy sleeping, and I would nap all day.

What is your most controversial food take?

Peanut butter sucks.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

I’ve never tried it, but I don’t think it’s for me.