Local Lacrosse Teams Set to Compete for Sectional Titles

On June 9, various lacrosse teams from the Morris and Sussex regions will vie for sectional trophies in the NJSIAA finals. Excitingly, a local team will compete in nearly every North final, with the NJAC represented in both categories of Group 2.

In the Group 1 North boys’ match, Ramsey will face off against Mountain Lakes, while the girls’ game features Mountain Lakes going up against Glen Ridge. Mountain Lakes has a history of success, having defeated these same teams to secure sectional titles last spring. The girls’ team has won four consecutive Group 1 North championships, while the boys have claimed 12 straight sectional trophies. However, they recently suffered a setback against Glen Ridge, where junior Avery Reid managed just one goal in an 11-1 defeat on May 20. Reid leads the Lakers this season with 34 goals and has also contributed seven assists, alongside impressive stats from junior midfielder Shea Sutter.

In the Group 2 North boys’ final, Sparta will battle West Morris. Sparta, the champion of the Hunterdon/Warren/Sussex region, is aiming to add to its trophy collection. West Morris last captured a Group title in 2016. Senior Eddie Brown has been a key player for Sparta throughout his varsity career, leading the team in scoring each season. The Spartans are on a winning streak, having taken seven consecutive victories since their earlier loss to West Morris.

For the girls’ Group 2 North final, Sparta will once again meet Mendham. Sparta previously defeated Mendham in last year's sectional final. This year’s Spartans boast a dynamic offensive trio, including senior Moira Sweeney and junior Joey Roque. Mendham’s junior Shea Shoulberg also stands out, having played a crucial role in their earlier victory over Sparta. While Sparta is fresh off a championship win, Mendham has not reached a Group final since 2019.

The Group 3 North finals will see Summit squaring off against Chatham in a doubleheader, with the girls’ game scheduled for 3:15 p.m. and the boys’ at 5:30 p.m. This event marks a significant occasion for both schools, as Summit steps up from Group 2, while Chatham seeks to reclaim past glory after a decade without a Group title.

Finally, in the Group 4 North girls' final, Ridgewood will take on Morristown. Ridgewood has a strong history, with eight Group titles, the latest being in 2023. Morristown, currently boasting a record of 18-5, won the Group 4 championship the previous two years. The matchup is expected to be highly competitive, showcasing some of the best talent in the region.