Malvern Prep Lacrosse Captures National Prep Championship Title

Malvern Prep Lacrosse faced their Inter-Ac League rival, The Haverford School, on Sunday, May 19 for the Victory Events National Prep Championship at Loyola University’s Ridley Complex. This was the third match-up for the Fords and Friars in the 23-24 season. In their first two meetings, the Fords took home the victory but the final Championship meeting would leave the Friars victorious with a score of 9-6.

Michael Ortlieb ’25 led Malvern’s attack with 5 goals including a momentum-changing goal to tie the score in the third quarter. Heath Jones ’25 anchored the defense with a strong performance in goal coming up with 6 saves. In the midfield, Nick Wehmeyer ’24 captured 8 of 17 faceoffs for the Friars. Owen Mears ’25, Jake Bickel ’25, and Ennis Udo ’24 each added a goal and an assist to help the Friars clinch the win.

Coach Matt Mackrides ’08 shared his pride in his team, “I'm extremely proud of our team and their efforts this year. We are grateful for the challenges and experiences that the 2024 season provided and are very thankful to have concluded our season with such a memorable win in a championship game. Our captains and senior class set the standard for our team and their leadership will be difficult to replace.”

The Friars finished the season 21-3 with big wins over nationally ranked opponents like St. Anthony’s, NY, Salesianum School, DE, Boys’ Latin, MD, Culver Military Academy, IN, Calvert Hall, MD, and La Salle College High School, PA.

Jim Stewart ’86, Head of Athletics, remarked on the success of the team, "We could not be prouder of our lacrosse program. To have the opportunity to perform on a national stage is something our players and coaches will never forget. The road that led us there is filled with many positive memories to be proud of."

Congratulations to the team and best of luck to the seniors as they continue on in their collegiate careers!