The Boston Cannons took the 2024 Championship Series by storm, winning the tournament in their first-ever appearance. Now, with February fast approaching, Cannons head coach Brian Holman and his team face a new challenge: proving that last year’s success wasn’t a fluke. Drawing on lessons from its inaugural victory, Holman identified four critical areas of focus as Boston prepares to run it back.

1. Grow from last year’s experience

The Cannons’ championship success last year was built on quick adjustments to overcome a steep learning curve in the fast-paced Sixes format. Now, with that experience under their belts, the team is better prepared to refine their approach. 

“What did we learn from last year?” Holman reflected. “How do we grow from that experience and use what we learned to hopefully put a better product on the field?”

This year, the focus is on mastering the game’s nuances – perfecting substitution patterns, sharpening matchups and improving execution in high-pressure situations. 

“The pace of the game … you really don’t realize it till you get out there. It’s just nonstop motion,” Holman said. 

With their newfound understanding, the Cannons are poised to adapt and compete at an even higher level.

2. The Return of Will Manny

Especially with the absence of Matt Kavanagh, Will Manny’s return to the Cannons adds both experience and leadership to the team’s pursuit of the title. But for the veteran, it’s about more than rekindling old connections – it’s about a hunger to contribute and prove his value. 

Manny’s journey back to the Cannons was anything but straightforward. Released by the Maryland Whipsnakes after training camp last summer, he signed with Boston midseason but wasn’t included on a gameday roster. Despite this, Manny stayed committed, always showing up and doing what was asked of him in practices and team meetings. “I want to be a part of something special,” he shared last summer, reflecting on the opportunity to return to the franchise where his professional career began.

Known for his precision as a shooter and his creativity as a playmaker, Manny’s return comes at a crucial time. He played in the inaugural Championship Series in 2023 with the Archers, alongside longtime teammate and best friend Marcus Holman, now one of the Cannons’ captains. Manny’s familiarity with the Sixes format and his leadership will be critical as the team refines its approach to this up-tempo style of play.

3. Carter Paulette's Debut: Bringing New Energy

A fresh face on the Cannons’ roster, Carter Parlette brings youthful enthusiasm and untapped potential. After missing his first pro season following Notre Dame’s NCAA national championship run, Parlette is eager to showcase his skills at the next level. 

“Carter hasn’t missed a Zoom call in a year,” Holman shared. “He loves the game so much and has so much passion. It’ll be great to see him out there and competing with the team.”

Parlette’s debut presents an exciting opportunity for the Cannons to blend his energy with the experience of their veterans, creating a new, dynamic lineup capable of thriving in Sixes.

4. The Hall of Fame Advantage

One of the Cannons’ greatest assets is Brodie Merrill, a recent Hall of Fame inductee and the team’s defensive coordinator for the second year in a row at the Championship Series. With decades of experience and an unparalleled understanding of the Sixes format, Merrill’s presence on the sidelines provides a significant advantage. 

“Just having Brodie on your side … you can’t be on the sideline with him without feeling that competitive energy,” Holman explained. “His presence clearly rubs off on the guys and on me.”

Merrill’s expertise in managing defensive matchups, subbing patterns and transitions will be crucial as the Cannons look to defend their title. Holman joked that with Merrill’s pedigree, he’d likely be just as impactful on the field as he is off.

“I know he’s retired. But I’m not sure whether it’d be better to have him play or not. I had to ask,” Holman laughed. “It was worth a shot.”

Setting the Standard in the Sixes Era

The Cannons are heading into the Lexus Championship Series with a clear plan to defend their title. By growing from last year’s experience, continuing to master the Sixes format, integrating fresh talent and leaning on veteran leadership, they’ve positioned themselves as strong contenders to go back-to-back.  

With Sixes set to debut as the Olympic lacrosse format in 2028, the Lexus Championship Series has become more than just about winning. It’s a chance for Holman and his team to set the standard for success in this evolving era of the sport.