Today The Long Game explores two new perspectives: a rival coach on the opposite sideline, and a referee on the field.

Nick Welton was Bellevue’s head coach from 2017 until he left the program in 2022. In that time, Bellevue and Mercer Island repeatedly met on the biggest stage in Washington high school lacrosse. Bellevue won three state championships under Nick — all against Mercer Island.

But this conversation isn’t about bragging rights. Nick discusses a rival’s view of Mercer Island, why healthy rivalries raise standards and make both sides better, and how he and Ian O’Hearn built real friendship and respect while competing fiercely against each other.

He also explains why great cultures require clear standards, real accountability, and consequences when the standard isn’t met.

Finally, Nick brings a perspective every sports parent should hear: the referee’s. Nick explains why sideline behavior matters, how parents affect young officials, and why respecting refs is part of respecting the game.

A conversation about rivalry with deep respect, standards without shortcuts, and competition that helps kids become champions, on and off the field.

Opinions expressed are only those of the host and guest and not necessarily those of Mercer Island Lacrosse.