Selfless play leads to scoring success for Auburn HS’ Connor Dautrich
Sophomore Connor Dautrich has used his selfless approach to help Auburn High School’s boys’ lacrosse team succeed. Courtesy of Connor Dautrich
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Auburn boys’ lacrosse player Connor Dautrich isn’t the biggest kid on the field and doesn’t seek the spotlight. But when watching the Maroons’ offense, it’s clear he’s the engine.
Dautrich’s success was built as soon as he could walk. He tagged along with then-Auburn players, dreaming of one day putting the same jersey on.
Now, that’s become a reality. The now-sophomore attack was one of Auburn’s top scorers during his freshman campaign in 2025, tallying 31 goals, 24 assists and 13 ground balls. With several graduating seniors, Dautrich is ready for an expanded role in 2026, preparing him to potentially play college lacrosse.
“This is a kid who watches and studies lacrosse,” Auburn head coach Matt Smith said. “He’s a lax rat, always in the backyard, always working.”
Dautrich picked up his first lacrosse stick in kindergarten, crediting his start to his father, Brian Dautrich, an Oswego lacrosse alum who now serves as Auburn’s assistant coach.
Though Dautrich is undersized compared to his teammates, he’s a fearless scorer who’s willing to make selfless plays. Dautrich made the varsity team as a freshman after playing modified lacrosse in seventh grade and junior varsity in eighth grade.
But moving to varsity lacrosse was a major adjustment. Dautrich had to overcome the pace and physicality of playing up. He said he felt constant pressure but was calmed when older players helped him adapt.
“I needed to prove myself,” Dautrich said. “The older guys made me feel welcome, though. The team environment made it easy to focus on getting better.”
That’s exactly what Dautrich did. By midseason, he was a reliable scoring threat, often putting step-downs in the back of the net and feeding his teammates for assists when he drew more attention.
Connor Dautrich (right) rises in celebration with a teammate. As a freshman at Auburn High School, Dautrich scored 31 goals, establishing himself as one of the team’s standout players. Courtesy of Connor Dautrich
Dautrich’s success was most notable against East Syracuse Minoa on May 8. He helped lead Auburn to a win with two goals and two assists — and his infectious energy.
Smith said the team initially questioned whether Dautrich could handle the pace of varsity. But his season-long success and overall toughness changed its mind.
“A couple of the upperclassmen were hesitant at first,” Smith said. “I think they judged (Dautrich) by his size, but he earned their respect quickly. He was tough, he took hits, made plays. He didn’t back down.”
Now, Dautrich is focused on his sophomore season. His vision and IQ have always stood out, Smith said. But he knows he needs to work on his physicality. Dautrich will spend the offseason lifting, developing his non-dominant right hand and improving his footwork.
With two graduating seniors, Dautrich hopes to play a bigger role in leading Auburn to a sectional championship. Smith believes his top-notch vision and selfless play make him ready for the challenge.
“He has a scorer’s mentality, but he’s unselfish. He’ll make the pass, even the hockey assist, if it’s the right play,” Smith said. “His style is more team-centered, not ego-driven. He’s not trying to impress with flash, he’s trying to make the right play.”
Dautrich’s humility can be traced back home. His house is littered with lacrosse equipment, due to his dad’s love for the game and the play of his two younger siblings.
“He’s been throwing the ball around the house since he could walk,” Brian said. “It’s something that’s always been ours. And now it’s evolved into game planning and coaching. It’s been special.”
As a coach’s son, Dautrich usually takes the heat when things go poorly in practice or games. Meanwhile, he often misses the praise when things go well.
Despite his success, Dautrich hasn’t worried about his impending college commitment. His focus is on improving his game and helping the team.
“He’s going to play college lacrosse. He’s that good,” Smith said. “But more importantly, he’s the kind of person who deserves success because he’s humble, respectful and willing to work for everything.”
For now, though, Dautrich will continue to be one of Auburn’s growing leaders and top performers for three more seasons. He may not turn heads with his size. But one thing is for certain: He’ll be at the top of every opponent’s scouting report.
“He respects the game, respects his teammates and loves being part of the team,” Smith said. “I see him being one of the top leaders and scorers in Auburn history.”
