BY GENE NARDI
The Wellington High School boys varsity lacrosse team won its third-straight district championship title in a 10-3 match over American Heritage School on Thursday, April 17 at Palm Beach Central High School.
Palm Beach Central was the host venue for the District 22 playoffs. The Broncos were eliminated by the Stallions earlier in the week in the semifinals. Wellington defeated Park Vista to earn their spot in the final match against American Heritage.
The Wolverines have held the district crown for the last two years, and will retain the title another year.
From the start of the whistle, both teams battled for possession. The Wolverines spread the ball around and found the opening to draw first blood. With seconds left in the first period, attackman Jason D’Aoust found the back of the net to score. Wellington would not surrender the lead for the remainder of the game.
D’Aoust and midfielder Allen Moye combined for five goals and three assists going in the early stages of the second period to extend the Wellington lead to 5-0. The Stallions finally got on the board to cut the Wellington lead 5-1 to end the first half of play.
Wellington continued with aggressive defense, keeping the Stallions workhorse Thomas Oporto away from the crease. Oporto still managed to score all three of the Stallions’ goals, but it was not enough. The Wolverine offensive attack was a collaborative effort, using patience and accuracy. American Heritage did not score again until late in the game.
Wellington sealed the victory with a late goal in the final period to close it out 10-3 to win the District 22 title once again.
D’Aoust tallied five goals and one assist for Wellington. Moye totaled four goals and one assist. Defender Chris Englert had three assists, and midfielder Michael Costello was big in the face-off arena, winning a majority. Midfielder Chad Moye had 10 forced turnovers.
Wellington advanced to take on the Oxbridge Academy in the regional tournament Tuesday night. Oxbridge Academy defeated the Kings Academy 17-7 for the District 21 championship. Results were not available at press time.
ABOVE: The Wolverines after claiming the district title.
