In a game that will be remembered as a defining moment in Southern California lacrosse history, Loyola High School overwhelmed powerhouse Mater Dei with an 11–3 victory on May 17, 2025, seizing the CIF Southern Section (SS) Division I Lacrosse Championship in spectacular fashion.
Heading into the championship clash, Loyola boasted an impressive 19–3 record and a dominant 14-game winning streak, while Mater Dei entered the game with a strong 15–3 mark of their own, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown between two elite programs.
The Cubs’ offensive prowess was apparent throughout the whole season, averaging 17.3 goals per game. Loyola’s physicality was on full display, as they pressured every possession and wore down Mater Dei with relentless checks and aggressive body play. Midfield battles were dominated by the Cubs, who consistently out-hustled the Monarchs and won critical ground balls that shifted momentum in their favor.
The Cubs’ defense was equally formidable, restricting the Monarchs to just three goals—a season low for Mater Dei. Key saves from goalies Will Russo ’27 and Garrett Flynn ’26, in addition to timely turnovers, disrupted any attempt by Mater Dei to regain footing in the match.
When asked to reflect on the historic season, Varsity Lacrosse defensive midfielder Jack Gilhooly ’26 had this to say: “For us, this was the process of three to four years for our upperclassmen and core group of 2026s. A once-in-a-lifetime experience wasn’t luck, though—it was the culmination of hundreds of 6:00 a.m. practices and hard work to get to this special point. Lacrosse is truly the medicine game, and it is only at Loyola that we can trust and lean on each other like we did this historic season.”
As the 2025 season concludes, Loyola’s triumph serves as a testament to their dedication and excellence on the field. With this win, Loyola becomes the first-ever school to win two CIF-SS Division I Lacrosse Championships—a milestone that cements their place in California lacrosse history.
Their performance throughout the season, culminating in the championship victory, sets a high standard for the program and inspires aspirations for continued success in the years to come. This season will be remembered not just for the title, but for the heart, grit, and brotherhood that defined every game the Cubs played.
