News Summary
In a remarkable achievement, Lucy Beckham High School’s girls lacrosse team secured their first state championship by defeating Fort Mill 8-5, while the boys team claimed their fourth consecutive title with a 14-5 win over Nation Ford. Both games showcased the skill and determination of the players, setting a promising tone for the school’s future in lacrosse. Notable performers included Iliana Kane for the girls and Henry Hankins for the boys, as they led their teams to victory amidst a competitive atmosphere.
Mount Pleasant, SC – In a historic achievement for both the girls and boys lacrosse teams, Lucy Beckham High School secured its first state championship title in girls lacrosse by defeating Fort Mill with a score of 8-5. Meanwhile, the boys team claimed their fourth consecutive title, winning against Nation Ford 14-5 in a decisive match, marking their first championship in Class 5A. Both championship games took place at Irmo High School.
The SCHSL (South Carolina High School League) realignment this year moved Lucy Beckham to the Class 5A classification, allowing the boys to compete at a higher level while demonstrating their continued dominance. Nation Ford’s boys lacrosse team was making their fourth straight championship appearance, having previously won back-to-back Class 5A titles in 2022 and 2023. Despite their loss, Nation Ford’s coach acknowledged the accomplishments of his team over the past four years.
The boys’ championship game illustrated a competitive match where Nation Ford trailed Lucy Beckham by just one goal (4-3) at halftime. However, a strong third quarter by Lucy Beckham saw them score three quick goals, ultimately stretching their lead to 8-3 by the end of the third quarter. Key players included Henry Hankins, who scored two of those pivotal goals, and Bear Hankins, with both players significantly impacting the game. Additionally, Brendan Dick and Wyatt Coombs each added two goals for Lucy Beckham, securing their victory.
The girls’ championship match saw Lucy Beckham take an early lead, finishing the first quarter 2-1 against Fort Mill. However, the second quarter was pivotal, as Lucy Beckham exploded offensively, leading 7-2 at halftime. Junior Iliana Kane stood out as the key player for the girls team, contributing three goals to their victory. On the other hand, Cece Shia of Fort Mill also performed remarkably, scoring three goals despite the team’s overall loss.
For Fort Mill, this championship match marked their fifth appearance in state finals, though their record now stands at 1-4 in title matches. The team had a rocky start to the season with a 1-5 record but made a significant comeback in the playoffs, including a semifinal victory against the previously unbeaten team, TL Hanna. Fort Mill’s coach acknowledged the team’s youth and inexperience in high-stakes situations yet expressed optimism about their potential growth in future seasons.
Following the thrilling lacrosse finals, attention shifted to the Class 4A championships, where Oceanside Collegiate faced off against Bishop England to complete the series of high-stakes games that showcased the talent and determination of local high school athletes across the region.
Both championships not only highlighted the achievements of the Lucy Beckham teams but also set a promising tone for the future of high school lacrosse in the area. The victories reflect a broader effort within the school and community to support and develop athletic programs and inspire young athletes to pursue excellence.
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HERE Resources
Greenville Kicks Off 2025 SCHSL Lacrosse Playoffs
High School Lacrosse Playoffs Set to Begin in South Carolina
South Carolina High School Lacrosse Playoffs Kick Off
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Lucy Beckham High School Lacrosse Championship
- USA Today HSS: Nation Ford vs Lucy Beckham Boys Lacrosse
- Inside Lacrosse: Lucy Beckham’s Ascent
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lacrosse
- Post and Courier: Lucy Beckham Lacrosse Appeal
