FLN has asked new Head Coach Doug Shanahan of St. Brendan High School in Miami to share his thoughts on how he is building his new program through their inaugural season. Here is his first submission!  We thank Doug for taking the time to do this and letting our readers experience this unique insight.   When I decided to take the job at St Brendan, I was fascinated by the idea of starting a program with no other foot print on it. Starting from scratch was exciting to me, I have had the full support of the Principal Rodelgo-Bueno and Athletic Director Arnaiz. We kicked off the fall with the Empire Elite Lacrosse Club in September. I knew if we were going to have a chance in the regular high school season I was going to have to get my the boys out on the field as soon as possible. Empire turned out very well, we even won a few games. I was truly surprised to have 40 kids just from St Brendan sign up, the summer should be even better. We trained all fall practicing and participating in local tournaments. When November arrived we added strength and conditioning in the program until Jan 16th. The boys have taken on and risen to every challenge that has been put in front of them. Yesterday we started the official practice at St Brendan, it was a great honor to start with these boys and this high school. We anticipate many growing pains and some frustration, with that said we also anticipate many milestones and celebrations. It means something to say you were the first to do something, it carries a certain weight and pressure. Through pressure diamonds are made. This is St Brendan’s foundation year. Here is our first ever practice plan: St Brendan Lacrosse Practice #1 3pm- Install O “13” and D “Green” 320- Stretch, ladder work with ball 335- Conditioning 17’s 345-water- 350- 3 man 2 ball- Long, Long, short, short: Goalie warmup at same time 400- Buildup drill-43,54,65 transition 420- water 425- Ground ball to 1 on 1 445- 2 down the field stick work 455- weave ground ball drill 510- Ball hunt   Good luck this season Coach Shanahan!  I’m sure our readers will be interested to see how you progress.