Last season Lovett and Lambert led the way in Georgia high school boys lacrosse – the former won the state title for Classes A through 5A and the latter was the champion for 6A and 7A. Between them the two combined for 43 wins in 45 games; however, neither could claim an extremely tough schedule. Instead, here are the programs that played the five hardest schedules in the 2022 season.
5. Milton
The Eagles went 10-8 last season, but it’s clear that their rigorous schedule helped them prepare for the playoffs. Milton faced off against 17-3 Pope in the first round of the state playoffs and fell by just one goal, an impressive result despite the loss. The Eagles defeated top 25-ranked teams in Centennial, West Forsyth, and South Forsyth in the regular season while playing several more top-rated teams along the way. Losses against Lassiter and Woodstock came by just two combined goals.
4. Westminster
One of the perennial contenders in the lower classifications of Georgia boys high school lacrosse, Westminster won 14 games last season against a challenging slate of opponents. They opened the season with four top-25 opponents in their first games and nearly knocked off Lambert midway through the year. The Wildcats have had historical success against rival Lovett, but that came to an end this season with two losses, including one in the state championship. The Lions ended the season undefeated at 23-0.
3. Centennial
The Knights had an impressive 2021 campaign with several quality wins, including victories over Mill Creek, Cambridge, Westminster, and Lassiter. They were tested in nearly every game in 2022, building an extremely strong resume heading into the playoffs. However, a defensive-oriented second-round loss to then-one loss North Paulding ended hopes of a deep playoff run. The future appears to be bright for Centennial, which will likely begin the upcoming 2023 season with an equally difficult schedule.
2. Cambridge
The Bears just barely finished over .500 last season, but with the state’s second-hardest schedule, that’s a more than acceptable showing. Nearly all of Cambridge’s 16 regular-season games came against top-50 ranked opponents in Georgia, and an eight-game win streak to end the regular season showcased the Bears’ true power. Cambridge ultimately fell victim in the quarterfinals to North Paulding, the same team that knocked out Centennial.
1. Roswell
No team had a tougher Georgia boys lacrosse last season than Roswell. The Hornets once again proved why they were one of the best teams in the state with a stunning 15-win season. After a season-opening blowout over Dunwoody, the Hornets faced off against six consecutive teams that ended ranked within the top 25. In the second half of the regular season, the Hornets faced three of the other four teams on this list along with perennial contender Walton. Ultimately, Roswell’s season came to an end in the quarterfinals in a thrilling game against Buford.
