WINCHESTER – A few notable things have changed in Winchester over the years, but Raiders boys lacrosse coach Phil Reuland remains determined to keep one pillar in place – a tradition dedicated to winning.

“I played for John Pirani in the nineties,” said Reuland. “Have been part of the program as a coach since 2002. So I certainly didn’t feel like the new guy, by any means. I would say the biggest challenge, as far as taking over for him, was that it happened in 2020, when our season was canceled. Then we came back to a modified season, and that was certainly the biggest challenge, and a unique one. Pirani, in all of his years of experience and wisdom, never had that. So that was a tough start, but obviously it was a lot, and John is still like family to me.”

Originally known for being a top assistant, Reuland took on a newfound role for the Raiders when Pirani retired. Definitely not an easy pair of shoes to fill.

He may no longer lay claim to the title of head coach, but Pirani remains a fixture. Occasionally, he can be seen watching a Winchester game in the stands. Other times, he offers advice on game film, which he consistently receives.

“He encouraged me on the way out,” Reuland said of his former coach. “Be yourself, change accordingly how you see fit.”

A teacher in the Medford school system, Reuland drives to Winchester daily, looking to start his own tradition in a decorated lacrosse community.

The coach has managed the transition with flawless expertise. The Raiders are ranked 10th overall in the MIAA’s latest Div. 1 power rankings, with an impressive 13-1 record, the only loss coming to state power Hingham.

The Raiders also knocked off a premier rival by topping Lincoln-Sudbury in a thrilling 11-10 victory on April 11.

It was a memorable win for the coach and his student athletes, having played Lincoln-Sudbury many times over the years. In most instances, the school fell short. This time, Reuland and his group earned payback against his longtime friend, Brian Vona, and his vaunted squad.

“We just work to improve,” said Reuland. “We definitely put a heavy emphasis on how hard we play, and try to coach the kids up on the more detailed aspects of the game throughout the season. Just a commitment to continue to improve, and play as a team. It sounds like a lot of sports cliches, but how hard you play makes a huge difference in this game. Your mental approach, and your willingness to take teaching and to improve are essential.”

Senior captain Max Lowenberg has led the charge for the Raiders, who have an MIAA rating of 7.3471.

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“This year, I’ve played a little bit more of a QB role,” said Lowenberg. “Dodge around the net, and kind of lead the offense. Which I wasn’t doing my sophomore or junior years. It’s been really fun, just helping out everyone younger.”

The Raiders caught fire, and are now one of the state’s top programs.

“I think it starts with practices,” said Lowenberg. “Coach has us going at 110 percent each practice. After each win, the practices don’t get easier … they get harder. I think we play some long games, because some practices are harder than games. They’re tough. What we put in practice translates to the game. I don’t think anyone practices as hard as we do.”

The cars honk occasionally nearby. Lowenberg simply turns his attention to the net.

“I think showing up every day is important,” Lowenberg said. “It sounds cringey and corny. But that’s our motto. We show up, each and every single day. Every single day, we get a little bit better.”

Winchester’s Max Lowenberg, left, goes to the turf with Burlington’s Nolan Jennings during a game Thursday. (Chris Christo/Boston Herald)