Haslett-Williamston Lacrosse’s Impressive Season Ends in State Semifinals

EAST LANSING — Abby Russell, a senior and Pittsburgh recruit, has enjoyed significant achievements throughout her time with the Haslett-Williamston girls lacrosse team. However, she asserts that nothing could compare to the camaraderie experienced this season. Russell attributes the team's strong bond as a key factor in their successful run through the state tournament.

Despite falling just short of a chance at the state championship, losing 20-6 to East Grand Rapids in the semifinals on June 3, Russell reflected on her final high school season with fondness. "It was an incredible last ride," she expressed. "Obviously we wanted a better outcome this game tonight, but I wouldn't have wanted to do it with anyone else. This is my family forever and I'm just so grateful for the opportunities that I got here."

The Haslett-Williamston squad made their fourth consecutive appearance in the state semifinals, concluding the season with an impressive 18-2 record. The team's 18 victories rank among the highest in the program's history, just shy of the 19 wins achieved in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. This year’s win rate of 90% stands as the best in the team’s history.

"It was our sisterhood and the way we were able to connect with each other on and off the field this season," Russell stated about their success. "Not only did it allow us to win a lot, it allowed us to have the most fun season I've had my entire career here, so that was really special."

Coach Kalli Miller praised the team for their selflessness and hard work throughout the season, which established them as the leading program in Greater Lansing. "I think our success shows how much determination and work we're putting in here and how much these girls really play for one another," Miller said.

In their attempt to reach the state championship game for the first time, Haslett-Williamston got off to a strong start, scoring two goals within the first three minutes. However, after being tied at 5 in the early second quarter, they fell behind as East Grand Rapids scored eight consecutive goals to gain control. "I think we really came out hot and were competing really well against them," Miller noted. "Trying to get over that mental block when they started to score was our biggest challenge, but I’m proud of them for continuing to fight in the second half."

For further details, contact Brian Calloway at bcalloway@lsj.com. Follow him on X @brian_calloway and Bluesky @briancalloway.

This article first appeared in the Lansing State Journal.