Westwood Boys Lacrosse Stuns Defending Champs, Punches Ticket to Final Four

By: Morgan Donahue

In a playoff thriller for the ages, Westwood boys lacrosse pulled off a dramatic 9–8 comeback victory on the road, eliminating defending state champion Longmeadow and securing their first-ever trip to the Final Four.

The Wolverines entered the MIAA Division 2 Quarterfinals as underdogs — but left as history-makers.

Trailing 8–4 early in the third quarter, Westwood mounted a relentless 5–0 run to take control. Junior Sam Cochran sparked the rally, scoring three straight goals to close the gap and ignite the team. His clutch performance fueled a defensive surge that shut Longmeadow down the rest of the way.

Anchored by junior goalie Jaden Pollack and a gritty defensive unit of Ryan Williams, Kyle Harvey, Ryan Salvage, and CJ Hancock, the Wolverines held strong under pressure. Williams drew the assignment of shadowing Longmeadow’s top scorer and rose to the occasion.

Sophomore Greg Walsh tied the game at 8–8 off a perfectly placed lob from Will Stuehler, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

Enter senior Troy Fredrickson — Westwood’s leading scorer, who had drawn double teams all postseason. With the game on the line, he saw opportunity, found space, and buried the go-ahead goal low to the far post with under a minute to play.

Longmeadow had one final possession, needing to answer to force overtime. As the clock wound down, Westwood’s defense forced the Lancers to the perimeter before a final dodge attempt led to a shot headed for the top corner — but Pollack made a clean, clutch save. With authority, he launched a clearing pass downfield as the final horn sounded.

Pandemonium erupted as the Wolverines stormed the field, celebrating the most iconic win in program history. The energy in the stadium matched the moment, with a strong showing from Westwood fans — even after making the nearly two-hour trip.

After the game, Head Coach Todd Zahurak reflected on the significance of the win:

“This one is at the top. It’s been a long time coming — not just for this team, but for all the guys who came before them. These players never quit. They trust each other. They believe.”

Westwood Goal Scorers

Sam Cochran (3)
Dante Martucci
Jack Roycroft
Liam Williams
Greg Walsh
Will Sesselman
Troy Fredrickson (Game-Winning Goal)

Next Up:

Westwood advances to face No. 6 Reading in the state semifinals. Game time and location to be announced.

Go Wolverines!