Metro Detroit girls high school lacrosse preview: 3 teams to watch
April 17, 2026
Michigan girls high school lacrosse season is officially back in action, with plenty of teams looking to push their way into a championship.
As the high school girls' lacrosse season gets underway in Metro Detroit, the competitive landscape is shaping up for another exciting year of action. Teams began official practices in early March, gearing up for a schedule that culminates with the state finals in early June. Among the many talented programs in the area, a few stand out as top contenders for the state championship. Based on past performances, returning talent, and early season expectations, Detroit Country Day, Hartland, and South Lyon United are three teams poised for significant success in 2026.
Detroit Country Day enters the season with a robust roster, signaling their intent to be a major force in Division 2. The Yellowjackets have a history of strong performances and their current lineup suggests a deep pool of talent to draw from. The team's schedule includes matchups against formidable opponents, which will test their mettle early and often. With a combination of experienced upperclassmen and promising new players, Country Day is focused on making a deep run in the state tournament. Their ability to integrate new talent with their veteran leaders will be a key factor in their quest for a championship.
In Division 1, the Hartland Eagles are another team with high aspirations. Coming off a season that saw them make a memorable run to the state finals, the team is motivated to take the final step. Interviews with the team captains reveal a clear goal: to return to the state championship and win. The players have emphasized the importance of teamwork and communication, highlighting the close-knit nature of their squad. Led by head coach Ryan Skomial, Hartland's tryouts in mid-March were competitive, setting the tone for a season where expectations are justifiably high. Their journey will be one to watch as they aim to build on last year's success.
South Lyon United is coming off a storybook 2025 season where they captured the Division 1 state title with an undefeated 21-0 record. This remarkable achievement has established them as a premier program in the state. The team included several key players from the class of 2026 who are now poised to lead the team as upperclassmen. Players like Gabriela Lucchesi, Gianna Lucchesi, and Shaelyn Perry were instrumental in the championship run and are expected to be leaders this season. The experience of playing and winning on the biggest stage at the University of Michigan's lacrosse stadium will be invaluable as they look to defend their title and continue their winning ways.
The journey to the 2026 Michigan High School Athletic Association lacrosse finals will be competitive, with regional matchups beginning in mid-May and the championship games scheduled for June 5th. As the season progresses, the development of team chemistry, the performance of key players, and the ability to overcome tough opposition will determine which teams will be left standing. For now, Detroit Country Day, Hartland, and South Lyon United have distinguished themselves as the teams to watch in what promises to be a thrilling season of girls' high school lacrosse in Metro Detroit.
Source: detroitnews