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Episcopal School of Dallas seals championship victory
Led in scoring by Virginia commit Sean Browne and Josh Logan among other talented performances on the field from their athletes, the Episcopal School of Dallas boys lacrosse team sealed the deal for their sixth overall championship victory-- first since 2019.
Despite heartbreaking losses in the state semifinals and state finals last year and the year before, it has been clear that ESD has been on a mission from the very beginning. Ready to reclaim their title, the lacrosse team took on several challenges throughout the year that ultimately led them right back into the playoffs and eventually into the state tournament. Fighting tooth and nail without hesitation or a moment of doubt, the athletes continued to play every game as if it were their last game of the season; reaping the benefits of hoisting the championship trophy with a 12-10 victory over The Woodlands in the state championship game. In the game, Browne scored a resounding five goals while Logan scored four of his own.
Head coach Jay Sothoron had only incredible things to say about this squad as they showcased not only skill, but impeccable leadership this season: "The last two years we lost at the state semifinal game by a goal and the state championship by a goal so we have been close," said Sothoron. "This year's team just got better every week. We dealt with a lot of injuries and had to beat three very good teams in the playoffs to win the state championship."
"Our young men just brought a different level of toughness and grit," Sothoron continued. "We made mistakes, but our work ethic and resilience were the foundation of success for us. We were able to put The Woodlands in a lot of pressure situations which caused turnovers that we capitalized on. This year's group played with an intensity that they are not going to lose. I n the end, we won as a team where our kids did not car who got the individual accolades. They played together and they earned the right to be state champs!"
With the offseason to prep for next year, fans can expect this squad to come back with the same tenacity and resilience that has led them deep into the playoffs for several years running. The team has the ability to record a repeat, but for now they deserve the well-earned chance to celebrate their championship!
STATE CHAMPS: Plano East Hoops On Top
For the first time in three decades, the Panthers made their appearance in the UIL Basketball State Tournament— this time, they brought the whole thing home. With.a 40-0 undefeated record, Plano East played their season with determination as well as tenacity; taking each opponent down with swiftness and poise. Throughout the year, athletes like DJ Hall, Richard Anton, Narit Chotikavanic, Isaiah Brewington, Jordan Mizell, Moustafa Aboulneel, Seth Romero, China Chineke, and others showcased talent on the hardwoods— truly giving their fans something to cheer about.
Defeating Stony Brook by a 53-41 score, Plano East put forth a lot of effort on the biggest stage in Texas high school basketball. Through every teachable moment, the Panthers were able to learn quickly and adjust even quicker— earning their spot at the top!
With a no-doubt attitude and the fire to succeed, there was never a doubt that the Panthers could pull it off this season. With a special squad and a competitive spirit, the Panthers put hard work to the test as they entered each game. Taking down every opponent that stood in their path this season, Plano East recorded 40 consecutive victories— 14 through district play.
As the newly titled State Champions, the team can be expected to utilize the offseason to the best of their ability; honing in their skills as they look to defend their title next season. With talented athletes headed into leadership roles, this squad has something that could stick for the next several seasons if they harness the same energy as they move forward.