Dominic Ortiz may not be the biggest player on the field, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with speed, aggression, and relentless determination. A standout lacrosse player at Sunlake High School, Ortiz has built a reputation for out-hustling and outworking his opponents, using his quick footwork and fearless playstyle to make a major impact on both ends of the field. Whether he’s dodging defenders, setting up plays, or battling for ground balls, Ortiz is a force to be reckoned with—proving that heart and hustle can be just as powerful as size.
Dominic Ortiz didn’t always play lacrosse though. He began his athletic journey in baseball before discovering lacrosse as a freshman. Dom said, “I got introduced to lacrosse at a clinic. My dad signed me up for it for fun and it introduced me to the sport, and I haven’t stopped playing since.” Starting a new sport as a freshman is later than most, but Dom has not let that stop him from succeeding. He said, “I practice with my team every day that we don’t have a game in the summer, fall, and school season for at least two and a half hours. I also occasionally stay after practice get some extra shooting in.” The work ethic he has is what has allowed him to succeed in lacrosse. Sean Faircloth, a former baseball teammate of his said, “Dom has a work ethic like one I have never seen. He is always willing to go the extra mile to get a little better and has never gives up.” His determination is a key factor in everything he does, if he wants something he will not stop trying till he gets it and that has been seen on his journey to become the player he is.
Dom is currently having the best year of his three-year Sunlake career. Through 16 games, he has nine points with six assists and three goals. Dom has credited his successful year to his approach to the sport, specifically pregame. He said, “I do have a pregame ritual where I just take a moment for myself right before I step on the field, and I pray for the safety of all the players and to have a good competitive game.” That pregame has really shown great improvement as he has gone from just four points in his first two seasons to nine points this season. He is also doing very well at the moment, as he has scored two goals and three assists in the past two games. Dom has faced some challenges and adversity while he has played. Specifically with his height. Dom is not the tallest or biggest, but he uses his speed and determination to help him not let those weaknesses affect his game and instead make them his strengths.
Overall, Dom has had a good three-year career so far at Sunlake. He said his favorite memory was when he scored his first goal. He said, “Scoring your first goal just is something you can’t forget. I remember it like it was last week.” He will look forward to making more memories like that as it is looking very promising for next year as he has only done better each season. From just starting lacrosse to now being a starter and being productive in the games, Dom Ortiz is becoming an excellent player.
