From Zebra to Duck: Michael Dallas commits to the University of Oregon for lacrosse

The 2023 Lincoln High lacrosse season has brought a number of firsts. Not only is it the inaugural season but the Zebras also have their first college commit in program history as senior Michael Dallas will be playing at the University of Oregon. "I got the opportunity to play for Oregon because I knew I wanted to play at the next level, so I just sent a tape out, texted coaches and eventually got a response," Dallas said. "From there, I got to visit the campus and meet the coaches and players at one of their practices. My top three schools ended up being Oregon, Colorado State and Sonoma State, which were all great schools but Oregon gave me the opportunity to play at a high level while being at a high level school." The commitment was announced on the Lincoln High School Facebook page and the Lincoln High Zebras Lacrosse Instagram page on April 15. Dallas was a captain for the Zebras in their first season, finishing with 54 ground balls, sixth most in the Sac-Joaquin Section, along with three goals and two assists. "This season was amazing and I'm so glad to be a part of Lincoln's first lacrosse season and it truly is a memory I will never forget," Dallas said. "I'd probably say my favorite moment is winning the Oakmont game in triple overtime. It was amazing seeing the growth from my teammates and seeing the improvement from game one to our last game. Also, watching people play for the first time and watching their reaction to how fun this game is is always an amazing thing." Dallas totaled 12 ground balls, scored two goals and added an assist in the 7-6 triple overtime win against Oakmont High on April 21. "Having Mikey as a model for the other guys on our team has been huge," said Zebras coach Kyle Morris. "He is such a great guy around school and a good chunk of the guys playing this year are because of him. When he says 'come try this sport, it's the most fun you'll have,' other students listen. I spent several hours on the phone talking to different college coaches about Mikey. There are only good things to say about his leadership and ability." Men's lacrosse is a club sport at the University of Oregon that competes in the Pacific Northwest Collegiate Lacrosse League (PNCLL). The Ducks lost to Simon Fraser University in the league title game on Saturday. "When it comes to college lacrosse, I'm really excited for the competition and making my way to the top of the depth chart," Dallas said. "My biggest goals are definitely to be a starter and win a championship for Oregon."