By BUTCH HARMON
Girls’ Division 1
The Rockford girls lacrosse team recorded a three-peat this season when it captured the Division 1 state lacrosse title.
The state-title win was anything but easy for the Rams, who held off Marian 10-9. “That was a little tough,” said Rockford coach Mike Emery. “Those were the two best teams in Division 1 going at it, and we’re fortunate to win a third straight title.”
Alex Vander Molen and Grace Gunneson led the way for the Rams, with three goals apiece.
Rockford’s defense, led by senior goalkeeper Katie Elwell, also came up big. Elwell, who has committed to Central Michigan University, is one of the top goalkeepers in the state. She finished the season with a 48.3 save percentage.
Vander Molen led Rockford’s offense this year with 73 goals and 31 assists. Brooklyn Neumen totaled 81 goals and 22 assists this season, while Gunneson ended the season with 58 goals and 22 assists.
Rockford reached the title game by defeating Hartland, 17-10, in the semifinal.
Girls’ Division 2
East Grand Rapids won its fourth straight Division 2 state title. The Pioneers defeated Cranbrook-Kingswood, 19-6, in the final. Senior Liz Elder led the victors with seven goals, while sophomore Lindsay Duca added five goals.
Boys’ Division 1
Brother Rice continued its dominance of boys’ lacrosse, as it won its 11th straight state championship. It defeated rival Detroit Catholic Central, 16-7, to win the title. Since 2005, Brother Rice is 159-1 against teams from the state of Michigan.
Morgan Macko led Brother Rice with five goals, while Riley North, Bo Pickens, and John Lockwood each added three goals.
Boys’ Division 2
Cranbrook-Kingswood won its third overall state championship in dramatic fashion with a 10-9 win over Okemos.
Senior standout Johnny Wagner scored his fifth goal of the game with 10 seconds remaining to win the game.
Wagner helped send the Cranes into the state final when he scored the game-winning goal in overtime in the semifinal against Forest Hills Central.