Saline Varsity and JV Lacrosse Secure Back-to-Back Wins

Saline, MI – April 11–12, 2025 – It was a strong weekend for Saline Lacrosse as both the varsity and JV squads picked up hard-earned wins. The varsity team delivered a statement victory over Skyline at home Friday night, while the JV squad followed up with a disciplined performance on the road Saturday, defeating De La Salle.

Varsity Tops Skyline 10–5 in Statement SEC Win

After two losses to Skyline last season, the Hornets took the field Friday with focus and energy, earning a 10–5 win and improving to 4–1 on the season. Skyline scored in the opening minute, but Saline answered quickly and never trailed again.

Senior Jack Scarpati connected with sophomore Nolan Heath for Saline’s first goal at the 7:30 mark, tying the game. Shortly after, Garrett Male forced a turnover on a clear and found Rylan Stanton for a finish that gave Saline the lead. The Hornets would go on to outscore Skyline 4–1 in the first quarter, thanks to unselfish ball movement and quick decision-making.

Heath led the offense with two goals and four assists. Jon Jon Ohren-Hoeft also had two goals and two assists, Male scored twice and added an assist, Jack Fate recorded one goal and two assists, Stanton finished with two goals, and Scarpati added a goal and an assist. One of the smoothest sequences came in the second quarter when Stanton fed Fate, who quickly moved the ball to Male for a clean finish that pushed the score to 5–2. That same combination returned for Saline’s final goal of the night, closing out the win at 10–4 before Skyline added a late score.

On the defensive end, Dylan Delaney, Wyatt Page, and Ian Theisen handled the bulk of close defense duties for Saline, with Michael Aeschliman rotating in during the second half and breaking up a wraparound attempt that led to a key possession shift. Delaney and Page continue to bring an aggressive, intelligent style of defense; both are quick to read developing plays and aren’t afraid to pressure and harass ball carriers. Page’s ability to anticipate and create transition opportunities continues to make an impact as his role expands. Theisen contributed key stops and positioning throughout the game.

At long-stick middie, Jack Nichols and Jacob Bengle set the tone with speed and intensity. Bengle was especially effective in tracking down ball carriers and creating turnovers in the middle of the field, while Nichol’s hustle in transition helped keep Saline on the front foot. Coleman Ross, playing as a defensive middie, added physicality and edge in one-on-one matchups, giving the Hornets toughness across all lines.

At the faceoff, Braylon Thomas took the majority of draws with support from wings Nichols and Logan Kipley. The trio helped Saline maintain possession and control tempo. Goalie Owen Belote recorded 13 saves and was sharp in transition, sparking several offensive pushes off clears.

Skyline and Saline will meet again on April 28, but Friday’s performance showed just how far this year’s team has come playing smart, connected lacrosse on both ends of the field.

JV Defeats De La Salle 5–2 on the Road

With no JV game scheduled against Skyline, the Hornets traveled to take on De La Salle on Saturday. The game was tied 1–1 at halftime, with Graham Murphy-Vanberkum scoring off a pass from Archie Gates in the first half.

Brecken Harcourt played the full game in goal, making nine saves and anchoring a defense that stepped up big despite limited numbers due to the last-minute schedule change. His composure and awareness were critical in keeping De La Salle off the scoreboard in key moments.

Jack Alexander gave the Hornets a 2–1 lead with a strong finish, followed by a goal from Fourie Dreyer on another assist from Gates. Cooper House added a sharp wraparound goal, and Gates connected with Dreyer again for the final score.

The 5–2 win was a great display of composure and teamwork, with solid goaltending and smart passing leading the way.

Saline Lacrosse is back in action this week as both teams continue SEC play. JV & Varsity will take on Pioneer next, looking to carry their momentum into a key matchup.

Follow along on Instagram (@saline_lax) and Facebook (Saline HS Boys Lacrosse) for highlights, recaps, and team updates all season long.