Detroit Country Day Rallies From 4 Goals Down to Win Title

Down by four goals midway through the second quarter, Detroit Country Day's lacrosse team could have folded under pressure. Instead, the Yellowjackets showed exactly what makes champions different.

The team rallied to defeat Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central 14-12 on Saturday, claiming their fifth Division 2 state championship in program history. First-year head coach JD Hess inherited a senior-heavy squad that had won the title in 2024, and those experienced players delivered when it mattered most.

"I think the difference that showed today was our character and the way that we rally and play for each other," Hess said after the game. The coach credited his players' hard work and determination for the remarkable turnaround.

Trailing 9-5, Country Day sparked their comeback with two late second-quarter goals from seniors Keaton Yearego and Addison Davis. That momentum carried into the third quarter, traditionally the team's strongest period all season.

Senior Luke Fisher delivered the crucial tying goals, knotting the score at 11-11 and shifting all momentum to the Yellowjackets. "I've been playing with these guys since I was a little kid and they have always had my back," Fisher said, his voice filled with emotion.

Junior Rhys Kenney and senior Preston Cook sealed the victory in the fourth quarter, each finishing with three goals. Country Day's defense stepped up in the second half, giving their talented offense the chances they needed to complete the comeback.

Forest Hills Central nearly pulled off an incredible season of their own. The Rangers started 2-10 before winning nine of their next 10 games to reach the championship.

Why This Inspires

This victory proves that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. Forest Hills Central's turnaround from 2-10 to the championship game shows the power of persistence, while Country Day's rally demonstrates that staying calm under pressure and trusting your teammates can overcome any deficit.

Both teams refused to give up when facing adversity. That kind of resilience extends far beyond the lacrosse field.

The Yellowjackets finished their season 20-1, and those celebrating seniors will carry the lessons of this championship for a lifetime.