In a heart-stopping finale, the lacrosse team secured its third consecutive LHSLL Division I State Championship, pushing past Newman 10-9 in Baton Rouge. Led by a poised senior core and benefiting from crucial late-game heroics, the Blue Jays overcame several lead changes to cement their ninth state title.

“This game exemplified everything we’ve preached all season: resilience, composure, and trust,” said head coach Zach Paul. “These seniors stepped up when we needed them most. They played with heart, they played for each other, and that’s why we’re champions today.”

The first quarter opened with Jesuit shaking off early nerves after Newman struck first. Senior goalie Henry Aucoin anchored the crease, turning away critical shots and quarterbacking successful clears to transition the ball effectively. The offense responded through senior Alex Barnett, who powered from behind the cage for Jesuit’s first goal, and fellow senior Wilson Frischhertz, who capitalized on a quick restart for a sharp-angle finish, putting the Jays ahead 2-1.

Newman surged in the second quarter, netting two unanswered goals despite persistent pressure from the Jesuit attack, including several close attempts from junior Zach Raymond. Aucoin’s saves kept Jesuit within striking distance, trailing narrowly 3-2 at halftime.

The third quarter saw the game break wide open.

Sophomore faceoff specialist Cameron Devine fought hard at the X, consistently gaining possession for the Jays, enabling juniors Colt Cartet and Raymond to deliver momentum-shifting goals. Frischhertz continued his standout performance, netting two more goals, including a critical equalizer that tied the score at 5-5. Barnett showcased his dodging prowess, splitting defenders with ease to bury his second goal. The goal briefly put Jesuit ahead before the Greenies tied the game again, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

In the tense final quarter, Barnett completed his hat trick, reclaiming the lead early. Frischhertz then scored his fourth goal of the night, widening Jesuit’s lead to two—an essential cushion against Newman’s persistent offense. Senior Jackson Anders capitalized brilliantly in transition, finishing a textbook fast break sparked by fellow senior Brighton Penedo’s defensive takeaway. Despite a late Newman goal, Jesuit’s defense, anchored by Aucoin, Brady Autin, Max Sutherlin, and Tavo Rivera, delivered the final decisive stop.

“These seniors have now set the standard for future classes,” Paul added. “They showed that Jesuit lacrosse is about more than just winning—it’s about how you fight through adversity and stay true to our mission on the field.”

Autin was awarded the Defensive MVP for the game, a rare accomplishment for a short-stick defensive midfielder. When asked about the victory and his commendation, he told Varsity Sports Now, “It means everything… you know, just having the boys behind my back, it’s not a popular position, but someone has to do it, and I take pride in it.”

Aucoin was defensively outstanding, finishing the night with 12 saves and several clutch fourth-quarter stops. Penedo was relentless on ground balls, scooping key possessions and forcing critical turnovers to tilt the field back in Jesuit’s favor. Senior defenders Luke Combel and Rivera played pivotal roles in containing Newman’s offense, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Jesuit’s balanced approach also saw contributions from underclassmen such as freshman Brendan Obletz and sophomores Devine and Blake Couvillon, highlighting the depth of talent poised to sustain the program’s legacy.

Frischhertz, who has been no stranger to outstanding championship endgame performances, was named offensive MVP.

“This award is great, but without the rest of our team, it wouldn’t mean anything,” Frischhertz told VSN. “It goes to the whole team: our amazing goalie, Henry Aucoin; our amazing defense; Zach Raymond, Alex Barnett on offensive… our team comes together, and we work as a group. I could not love [this team] more.”

“We talk about playing for others, giving glory to God, and leaving it all out there,” said Paul. “Tonight, these young men did exactly that, and I’m incredibly proud.”

Jesuit concludes its impressive season as champions, showcasing the skill, determination, and teamwork that have become synonymous with Blue Jay lacrosse.