DURHAM – It was a banner day for the Cardinal Gibbons Crusaders, as both the men's and women's lacrosse teams captured NCHSAA state championships at Durham County Memorial Stadium.
In the men's final, the Crusaders edged past Lake Norman 10-8 to claim the program’s seventh title. Locked in a 5-5 tie early in the third quarter, Cardinal Gibbons broke away behind three straight goals from Justin Conley, building an 8-5 lead they would not surrender. Gibbons is now 7-1 in NCHSAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship appearances.
Conley was one of three Crusaders to record a hat trick, alongside Zach Kerner and Brown Parker. Ciaran Murphy also added a goal. Kerner, named the game’s Most Valuable Player, contributed two assists as well.
Lake Norman was led by Brandon DeBerardinis with three goals, while Kayden Robles scored twice. Cannon Wiggington, Brady Johnson, and Connor Mumford each added a goal for the Wildcats, who finished the season 20-5. Cardinal Gibbons closed the year with a 24-2 record.
In the women’s championship, the Cardinal Gibbons Crusaders captured their eighth NCHSAA title with a commanding 17-7 victory over Weddington. The win marked the Crusaders’ third straight state championship and improved their all-time record in title games to 8-1.
After taking a narrow 6-5 lead into halftime, Cardinal Gibbons dominated the second half, outscoring Weddington 5-1 in the third quarter and 6-1 in the fourth. The Crusaders outshot the Warriors 36-19 overall, including a 19-10 advantage in the second half.
Jane Bailey Wad and Ella Grimes each scored four goals to lead Gibbons, while Lexi Mullahy added three goals and four assists on her way to being named Most Valuable Player. Hayden Miller and Rocky Phelps contributed two goals and two assists apiece.
For Weddington, Grace Webb, Ella Turner, and Logan Hailey each scored two goals, with Webb also adding an assist. The Warriors wrapped up their season at 19-8, while the Crusaders finished 18-5.
Gallery: Click Photo To Enlarge… Enjoy!
