By: Danny Sedlazek

This school year, Ben Drew was a player on the THS Junior Varsity Boys Lacrosse team and a runner on the cross country team. Despite going to a military school during his middle school years, Ben is far from militant. In fact, I’d argue he’s the opposite.
Ben is a simple boy reminiscent of simpler times. He’s a combination of Beaver from Leave it to Beaver, The Bee Gees, and Dwight D. Eisenhower himself. “I like to lax and party,” he said with the shimmering eyes of a young Marlin Brando. “I also like to hang out with my friends so we can lax and party together.”
In fact, I’d argue that Ben cements the theory that all great men have two first names. Think about it: Michael Jackson, Thomas Jefferson, Ricky Bobby, and now Ben Drew all have two first names. How can you argue with that logic?
“I’ve been laxing for about 3 years. Whenever I play, I put the team on my back.” Despite his somewhat limited experience comparatively, who can argue with his selfless play style? At times, Ben even becomes the white dwarf of his team’s solar system, shining brighter than anyone else. “My proudest moment this year was probably when I scored six goals against Heritage. It wasn’t just for me; it was for the team as a whole.” I’ve heard of a hat trick, but that’s more of a crown-trick if you ask me.
“The sport has given me so much: especially all of the ignorant nicknames I get.” I don’t understand how such a sophisticated young man could be christened with anything less than royal, but I guess it’s just the role he plays.
“I have goals and expectations for myself, but at the end of the day, I just want to have a good time.” In a sport so ruined by scandals, it’s nice to see a young athlete driven by love for the game.
“He just brings the team together. He makes all of us better,” said fellow freshman and teammate Michael Byers. “If everyone in the world was like [Ben Drew], the world would be a better place.”
“If he makes Varsity next year, I’m sure he’ll make an impact, whether it’s in our play or in our makeup as a team. I can’t be sure. But I can be sure it’ll be for the greater good.” These were words coming from junior and varsity lacrosse player Chapman Tagg.
When asked how he could do so much for so many people, Drew had this to say:
“I just catch the ball and rip, man.”
Simply elegant, yet hard hitting, and thought provoking. Classic Ben Drew.