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There was a time when Tom Duquette was debating whether he wanted to be a lacrosse coach or a math teacher. 27 years later and several TCIS and state titles, Duquette has the luxury of doing both at Norfolk Academy.

“I really didn’t expect myself to be here”, he says. “I love teaching, I love coaching.”

The Bulldogs are once again in the thick of things in the conference and many are picking them to get back to the Virginia Independent School tournament. They’ve been runner-up the past two years, and want to change the outcome.

The players are getting plenty from Duquette’s knowledge. He’s a former 4-time All-American out of the University of Virginia as well as a National Lacrosse Hall of Famer.

During his time in Charlottesville, he still ranks in the top 10 in three categories that includes career goals. Duquette has even sent former players to powerhouses like his alma mater, Johns Hopkins and Princeton. Just like his players have gained something from him; he too has gained plenty from his teams.

“I learn they keep me young. It’s the same game played in the same way. I’m privileged to teach and coach these guys.”