In a tough battle for the South Carolina 5A state championship on Saturday, April 27th, Fort Mill High School’s girls lacrosse team faced a disappointing defeat, losing 13-4 to Chapin High School. The match saw Fort Mill’s Yellow Jackets start strong, scoring the first goal of the game. However, the momentum shifted quickly as they struggled to keep pace with a robust Chapin team.
The Yellow Jackets felt the absence of their top scorer, Grace Sandler, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained during the Upper State championship game. Sandler’s absence was keenly felt as the team tried to fill the gap left by their leading goal-scorer.
Coming into the state finals, Fort Mill was riding high on confidence following their exhilarating performance in the Upper State championship. On April 22nd, they clinched the title in a nail-biting overtime victory against the JL Mann Patriots. The game, held at Bob Jones Stadium, ended in a tight 10-9 score, marking Fort Mill’s second consecutive overtime win and propelling them into the state finals.
Despite their loss in the championship, Fort Mill High School’s girls lacrosse team had a commendable season, finishing with a record of 13-6. As South Carolina State 5A Runner-ups, the team demonstrated remarkable skill and teamwork throughout the season, and their journey to the finals was filled with memorable victories and intense determination.
As they reflect on their season, the Fort Mill High School girls’ lacrosse team can take pride in their achievements and the relentless spirit they displayed, promising a strong return in the next season.
Photographs provided by Becky Funderburk
