KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Max Pareto is one step away from reaching the summit with his Jupiter Warriors lacrosse team.

In just about two hours from now, Jupiter (17-1) will be facing off against Winter Park (19-0) in the Class 2A state title game. The start time for tonight’s championship clash is set for 8 p.m. at Austin-Tindall Sports Complex in Kissimmee.

Jupiter’s journey to the state final included a 14-6 win over Plant (Tampa) in the 2A state semifinal round last night (May 7). Other key wins were over Stoneman Douglas (22-7 victory; 2A-Region 4 semifinal on April 23) and St. Thomas Aquinas (8-7 victory; 2A-Region 4 final on April 30).

“Our lacrosse season has been interesting with the team and coaches,” said Pareto, who is currently a junior who plays both lacrosse and football for Jupiter. “We have been working hard for this moment like having 5 am practices every week, team bonding, and even having practice without the coaches. This lacrosse team has a culture, and we’re ready to bring it.”

Pareto is both a defender and midfielder for the Warriors. He has registered 26 ground balls, two goals, and three takeaways, while posting a .561 face-off percentage in 18 games this season as a key contributor to his team’s on-field success.

Pareto touched on what he and his team must do to win tonight’s game and hoist the 2A state title trophy hardware.

“To win this game, we need to listen to our coaches, go for every ground ball, and outplay Winter Park,” Pareto said. “It’s simple as that.”

After this weekend, Pareto’s focus will be on the Warriors varsity football team.

“I will focus on getting noticed by college coaches by going to showcases and training with my coach,” said Pareto, who had 300+ rushing yards and six touchdowns as a running back/wide receiver/athlete in six games this past season. “I’m hoping to get some great film for the spring game.”