News Summary

Hopewell Valley boys lacrosse team clinched their second consecutive Colonial Valley Conference title, defeating Notre Dame 9-7 in a thrilling match. The match not only highlighted the team’s resilience but also set the stage for their upcoming state playoffs. With standout performances, including six goals from a key player, the team is focused on continuing their success as they prepare for their next challenge, while also engaging with the community through events that honor local heroes.

Hopewell Valley Triumphs in Thrilling Lacrosse Championship

Hopewell Valley, NJ – In a nail-biting showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Hopewell Valley boys lacrosse team defeated Notre Dame with a score of 9-7 on Thursday evening, May 15, 2025. The match, held at the picturesque Hopewell Valley Central High School, marked a significant achievement for the athletes as they clinched their second consecutive title in the Colonial Valley Conference.

Back-to-Back Glory

This victory isn’t just another trophy; it highlights Hopewell Valley’s incredible journey in the inaugural Colonial Valley Conference Boys Lacrosse Tournament. With this win, they have proven, once again, that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of high school lacrosse.

Countdown to State Playoffs

As the excitement of the championship lingered, the countdown to the state playoffs was in full swing. The cutoff date for the upcoming championships had just passed on May 13, 2025, and the NJSIAA is set to reveal the official seeds for the state tournament on May 17, 2025. It’s an electric time for the athletes, as they’re eager to see how they rank against other teams.

How Seeding Works

The seeding committee is hard at work during this exciting time, considering several factors to determine the teams’ rankings. They utilize a system known as Power Points, which includes the evaluation of Quality Points, Residual Points, and other key elements such as team records, wins against out-of-state opponents, and overall strength of schedule. These points offer a detailed snapshot of each team’s performance, and ultimately impact how they fit into the sectional playoff brackets.

A Weekend of Community Spirit

Salute to First Responders game on Saturday afternoon, showcasing their commitment to the local community. This meaningful event honored emergency personnel and served as a fundraiser to support vital agencies in the area. The charming picnic setup, courtesy of the Pennington Fire Company, created a warm atmosphere for community members and fans alike.

Honoring Local Heroes

Even more touching was the presence of Battalion Chief Joseph Novak of the Hopewell Fire Department, who led the crowd in the singing of the National Anthem before the game. The event also featured a medivac helicopter from the Jefferson Hospital System, giving attendees a first-hand view of this critical life-saving resource.

Match Highlights

Hopewell’s strategy was spearheaded by a standout performance from Luke Caldwell, who dazzled spectators with a remarkable achievement of scoring six goals during the contest. The competition was fierce, but Notre Dame’s players also made their mark: Klish and Schaefer each netted three goals, contributing to their team’s effort.

Shot Count and Goalkeeping

32 shots at goal, compared to Notre Dame’s 29. The Bulldogs of Notre Dame put up a valiant defense, with goalie Vicenzo Labianca making an impressive 14 saves throughout the match, showcasing his skill under pressure.

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