Lincoln-Sudbury's Late Surge Falls Just Short in State Championship

WORCESTER - In a dramatic turn of events, the Lincoln-Sudbury boys lacrosse team found their rhythm just in time, igniting a fierce offensive push. With three goals in under a minute, including two within a mere 25 seconds, the Warriors closed the gap, momentarily making a comeback seem plausible. However, BC High managed to control the clock, ultimately securing the Division 1 state title with a tight 10-9 victory on a warm Friday afternoon at Worcester State University.

As the Eagles celebrated their triumph and hoisted the championship trophy, Lincoln-Sudbury's players exited the field somberly. Some were visibly emotional, while others bore signs of the battle, but all departed in silence. "Our guys never quit," expressed L-S coach Brian Vona. "I just wish it happened a little earlier. Our guys don't quit; that's Lincoln-Sudbury lacrosse right there."

The rally began with an unexpected goal from defender Caleb Elenbaas with just under three minutes left, narrowing the score to 10-6. Despite a stellar postseason where L-S boasted a 61-17 goal differential, they struggled against BC High, whose goalie, TJ Emsing, made crucial saves throughout the game.

Brendan Dooley added a hat trick goal with 1:49 remaining, followed by Brady Malo's goal at the 1:15 mark. Kaeden Ryan then scored with only 50 seconds left, igniting a small but passionate crowd. Nevertheless, BC High held on to win their first state title since 2018, with L-S trailing after falling behind 5-0 and 8-2 earlier in the match.

Lincoln-Sudbury remains the last public school to have claimed the Division 1 championship, doing so in 2019. This season, the Warriors faced only one in-state opponent, St. John's Prep, who managed to defeat them during the regular season. Coach Vona expressed satisfaction with his team's performance throughout the spring, despite the outcome.

In 2019, L-S won their last state championship decisively, defeating Hingham 16-7. Senior captain Johnny Herlihy, who scored four goals in that match, reflected on his gratitude for being part of this team. Vona also shared a special moment coaching his son, Owen, for the final time. "It's awesome. He's a leader; he wears it on his sleeve," Brian Vona remarked. As for his coaching future, he remained vague, stating, "I'll talk about that some other time."