Nate Kittler knows a thing or two about lacrosse.

The 52-year-old Kittler not only is beginning his 24th year as Natick High’s varsity head coach, he’s also the only head coach the program has ever had. 

The Redhawks started competing as a varsity lacrosse team in 2001 and since that time Kittler has guided Natick to 15 state tournament appearances. The deepest playoff run his forces achieved was in 2021 when they lost in the quarterfinals to Boston College High.

A native of Natick, Kittler no doubt would like to direct the Redhawks past the quarterfinals and see what’s in store for his players in the Final Four. He’s not predicting that situation, but it remains a definite possibility based on the strengths of his 2025 squad which opened its season hosting Wayland on March 29 after Local Town Pages’ deadline.

“We’ve got lots of experience with 14 returning players from last year,’’ he said. “We also have depth, athleticism, and a high lacrosse IQ. The boys are coachable, their attitudes are positive and they’re a close-knit group. Another key is they’re mentally tough.’’

Kittler’s goals for the season offer hints that this could be a special season.

“We want to be better on the last day of the season than we were on the first day,’’ he said. “We also want to win the Bay State Conference title and advance as deep as possible in the state tournament. If we maintain the right attitude and teammates look out for one another, we will have success. We also need to get comfortable being uncomfortable.’’

The following is a thumbnail look at the players who form the Redhawks’ nucleus with comments from Kittler.

Ben Vose: A senior captain, he’s a big, tough, and skilled defender with a high lacrosse IQ. He fractured his fibula during hockey season and has worked hard to be ready for the season. A second-team BSC all-star, Ben marks our opponents’ best attackmen.

Alex Masterangelo: A senior captain, he’s a very athletic and tough-as-nails defender. He’s very coachable and has a great sense of the field.

Alex Peck: A senior captain, he also was a captain on the hockey team. An attackman, he was a first-team BSC all-star last year, scoring 51 goals and compiling 24 assists. A very shifty player who has a great shot. He’s got a superb mindset for all sports.

Donnie Guglielmucci: A senior captain, he’s a fast and aggressive midfielder who can outrun opponents and play solid defense. A great communicator, we’re looking for him to have a standout season.

Evan Hyman: A senior captain, he’s only played lacrosse for three seasons. A second-team BSC goalie last year, he had a .667 save percentage. Great leader and communicator.

Levi Gagnon: A junior midfielder, he was a first-time BSC all-star last year. Levi is fast, shifty, tough and has a high-level lacrosse IQ. Had 30 goals and 15 assists last season. Hustles all over the field and can find the back of the net.

Josh London: He’s a big left-handed attackman who scored 32 goals last year. He loves the game and is going to have a great junior season.

Ryan Cochrane: A senior midfielder, he’s very coachable and hustles intensely. I’m looking for him to step up this spring.

Liam O’Shaughnessey: A senior midfielder, Liam is very athletic. He has the potential to be an explosive player.

Gavin Hamel: A senior defender, he’s fast, tough, and able to get around the field. His ability has improved tremendously.

Luca Cardolaccia: A senior midfielder, he’s been a defensive middie for us but we’re hoping he can play a role in our offense. Luca is fast and determined.

Tate Cogliano: A senior faceoff specialist, Tate is our locker-room guy. We’re hoping he has a great season on faceoffs. A captain in ice hockey.

Dylan Cohen:  A senior midfielder, he will become a great asset when he puts all the pieces together.

Jack MacDonald: A senior midfielder, Jack is a two-way competitor who plays tough defense and can be an offensive threat at times.

Aiden Danty: A senior goalie, Aiden is a team player. He started playing goalie last year because there was a shortage at that position. Did a great job and we’re looking for even more this spring.

Kittler has a trio of capable assistants that include John Larkin (jayvee coach and varsity aide) and varsity assistants Bruce Channechuk and Gene Zanella. “We’re fortunate to have them,’’ Kittler said. “Bruce played on three national title teams at Johns Hopkins. And, it’s good to have alumni and opposing coaches join our staff.’’

Kittler relies on a coaching philosophy that focuses on potential and enjoyment. “I strive to make sure our players reach their potential and have fun in their athletic journey,’’ he said. “When that occurs, winning will be the by-product. It’s also important to build a family atmosphere and camaraderie.’’

Kittler also labels the lacrosse field as “an extension of the classroom.’’ He knows valuable life lessons can be learned there.

“Sports teach kids to overcome adversity and be resilient,’’ he said. “Players also can learn how to lead, how to become quality teammates and to be accountable.’’

No matter how each season unfolds, Kittler always aims to develop “good people.’’

“It’s important that our players become good citizens,’’ he said. “And, we strive to make sure our players respect their school, their teammates, the community and the game. Good people make good Redhawks.’’

The 2025 boys lacrosse team at NHS has the potential to achieve great things.