In sports, jersey numbers often carry personal meaning whether its a favorite athlete, a lucky number, or a family connection. But for Goose It athlete Josh Balcarcel, wearing #34 is about something far greater. It’s about carrying on a legacy, honoring a life, and representing values that extend well beyond the lacrosse field.
The number 34 holds a deep place in the heart of the Marist lacrosse program. Its significance began with Edward Taylor Coombs, a freshman who tragically passed away in a car accident in 2011. Eddie wore 34 not only as a player but as a teammate whose energy, positivity, and leadership left a lasting mark. His presence was larger than life, both in the locker room and on the field, and his legacy quickly became the foundation of the program’s culture.
Since his passing, Marist has honored Eddie by awarding the number 34 to a senior who embodies his spirit, someone who represents selflessness, hard work, and the kind of teammate everyone wants beside them.
Josh Balcarcel was chosen to carry that honor, wearing 34 during both his senior year and his fifth year at Marist. For him, it was about more than just tradition:
Being able to wear 34 on my chest made me realize that I am playing for so much more than myself. Having the ability to not only represent my family but the Coombs family as well meant everything to me.
For Josh, every practice, every game, and every moment in that jersey became a reminder that he was part of something bigger. It wasn’t just about goals or wins, it was about honoring a legacy and carrying forward Eddie’s spirit. So when Josh earned a spot on the PLL Redwoods roster, the decision to continue wearing 34 was, in his words, “a no brainer.” The number had become a part of him, a symbol of pride, gratitude, and purpose.
Fast forward to now, choosing to wear number 34 to start my PLL career was honestly a no brainer for me… I knew I was going to have the ability to continue carrying the Coombs legacy.
For Josh, it’s one of the best decisions he’s ever made, a commitment to honor Eddie’s memory not just on the field, but in the way he carries himself every day.
Image: Edward Taylor Coombs