Laird Miller has been a four-year letter winner in the program. He has committed to play DII lacrosse at Rollins College outside Orlando in the fall. He wears No. 4 because of alum Xander Welty, who took him under his wing as a freshman. He was one older sister. He was an Arizona Lacrosse second-team all-state selection as a junior.
What are you most excited about Rollins and playing collegiate lacrosse?
“I am extremely excited about Rollins. They are one of the best DII programs in the country, it is a great location and the campus is beautiful. They are ranked No. 2 in the country.”
What are your goals for your senior season?
“We want to end with another ring, We have a goal of going undefeated this year in and out of state.”
What has it meant to you to be part of the last two state championships?
“It puts me in a veteran position. I have been on the team for four years. Being on a team that has both won and lost in the state championship, I know the feeling of both. The greatest accomplishment you can make in your high school career is winning that state championship.”
How is the team feeling after two wins in Las Vegas over a pair of Nevada teams?
“The team is feeling very good about the weekend. Of course, there are things we need to work on. We pulled out a very good two-win weekend.”
What do your senior teammates mean to you?
“They are like brothers to me. I have played with them since the seventh grade. We have a connection on the field.”
Tell us about your upcoming real estate license qualification.
“My Dad is a developer. He has been developing in Arizona and Texas. I am planning on going into the industry and wanted to get my license to start learning the terminology and basics. I will work as an agent as an apprentice.”
Brophy College Preparatory celebrated its 76th commencement on Saturday, May 18, at 9 a.m. in Robson Gymnasium. This graduation was significant for the Class of 2024, who began their high school journey remotely due to the pandemic.
The Class of 2024 demonstrated resilience and connection despite the challenges of starting their education online. Their unity and adaptability were evident throughout their time at Brophy, embodying their class theme: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Valedictorian Doer Leo He delivered a memorable speech, drawing parallels to the movie "Finding Nemo" and encouraging his classmates to persevere with the phrase, "Just keep swimming." President Bob Ryan and Principal Jim Bopp also spoke, highlighting the graduates' resilience and urging them to be agents of positive change.
The ceremony concluded with a strong sense of pride and accomplishment, celebrating the Class of 2024's journey from remote learning to a united and triumphant graduation.