Saline Lacrosse Midseason Surge: Milestones, Depth, and a Growing Identity

Saline, MI – April 30, 2025 – At the halfway point of the season, Saline Varsity Boys Lacrosse is 7–3 and trending upward. After a rocky outing against Bedford, the Hornets rebounded with dominant wins over Chelsea and Skyline, highlighting not just their on-field execution but the growth of the program’s depth and identity.

The team has already surpassed last year’s win total, notching victories over opponents they struggled against in the past, including a convincing 11–3 road win at Skyline this week after losing twice to them last season.

The week began with a frustrating loss to Bedford in their second matchup of the season. Despite a win earlier in the year, Saline couldn’t find rhythm in the rematch and fell 11- 5.

“We were plagued by poor communication on defense and a lack of effort on ground balls,” said Head Coach Ty McGuire. “Braylon was the standout for our team with his consistent effort on faceoffs.”

Braylon Thomas continues to anchor the team at FOGO, winning key possessions and bringing energy to every play. With senior Dylan Delaney out, the defensive unit leaned on starters Wyatt Page, Ian Theisen, and Michael Aeschilman, newcomer Henry Min, who made his varsity debut that night. The Hornets couldn’t capitalize on enough opportunities down the stretch, but the team quickly turned the page.

That Friday, Saline went to Chelsea in a non-division matchup and put together a complete game. Despite a thunderstorm that canceled the JV game, the varsity squad came out focused and sharp, cruising to a 16–2 victory behind strong performances across the field. The win set a new tone heading into the second half of the season.

Saline closed out the three-game stretch with a signature win Monday night, defeating Skyline 11–3 on the road. It was a redemption performance after back-to-back losses to Skyline last season.

“Solid game,” said McGuire. “I thought Skyline had an organized defense with a really good keeper, so the score may not represent how lopsided things were for the most part. Braylon was awesome per usual and set the tone with his effort and energy. I was impressed with our defense’s on-ball approach and, offensively, it was well balanced.”

The Hornet defense held Skyline to one goal through three quarters. Page continued to lead the unit with disciplined pressure and clear communication, while Theisen, Jacob Bengle, and Michael Aeschliman each contributed key minutes. Min also returned to the lineup, and Cooper Budnik earned time in the defensive rotation, both showing poise under pressure.

At LSM, Jack Nichols has been a consistent force, combining speed and field awareness to disrupt opposing offenses. Logan Kipley contributed in transition and scored his first varsity goal during the win, adding a spark on both ends of the field.

Offensively, Saline saw contributions throughout the lineup, and sophomore Nolan Heath reached a major milestone, recording his 100th career point. Heath now holds 62 career goals and 41 assists. His vision and ability to finish in tight spaces continue to set the tone for Saline’s attack. Jack Fate, Garrett Male, Jon Jon Ohren-Hoeft, Rylan Stanton, Graham Murphy-VanBerkum, Cooper House and Jonah Strok each contributed in key moments, reflecting the team’s balanced scoring approach One of the night’s breakout performance came from junior Andrew Winters, who tallied his first varsity goal and added two assists for a three-point night. The lefty has been working his way into the rotation and brings a valuable balance to the offense with his ability to attack from either side of the cage.

As the season has progressed, several JV players have earned varsity call-ups and delivered when given the opportunity. Jack Alexander, Cooper, Budnik, Cooper House, Gabe Elekonich, Henry Min, Graham Murphy-VanBerkum, and Brecken Harcourt have each stepped in throughout the season, some in key SEC matchups, and shown readiness when called upon. Harcourt notably stepped in as starting goalie on Youth Night, helping Saline to an 18–1 win over Huron with eight saves after allowing just one early goal.

Whether stepping into short-handed lineups or late-game situations, these athletes are helping build depth and confidence for the stretch run.

With a 7–3 record and key games still ahead, including another matchup with SEC rival Pioneer, and traveling to Novi on Friday. The Hornets are building momentum, sharpening chemistry, and continuing to write a very different story from last year.

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