Lacrosse Nationals 2025 – A Weekend of Outstanding Performances

Lacrosse Nationals – A Weekend of Outstanding Performances

Last week saw two Queen Margaret’s lacrosse teams take to the national stage at the National Schools Lacrosse Championships, with the U18 team competing on Saturday and the U14 team playing on Tuesday. Both squads demonstrated skill, determination, and teamwork, achieving fantastic results in a highly competitive environment.

Saturday: U18s Take Silver in Division 2

The U18 squad headed into the championships with a small but determined team of just 13 players. Day one placed them in a challenging pool, facing some of the strongest teams in the competition, including the eventual champions. Despite not securing a win in the group stage, the team put in excellent performances—limiting top teams to just a few goals and scoring against high-level opposition.

Their resilience and disciplined play secured them a spot in Division 2 for day two, where they quickly found their stride. A draw against North London Collegiate was followed by three consecutive wins over St George’s Ascot, Worth School, and Rendcomb, earning them second place in the pool and a place in the knockout rounds.

The quarter-final against Cheltenham Ladies’ College was tense, finishing 1-1 at full time. With QM having scored first, they progressed to the semi-finals under tournament rules. There, they faced Habs, the favourites to win the division. QM took an early 2-1 lead and held possession brilliantly, eventually sealing the victory 3-1 to reach the final—a step further than last year’s semi-final finish.

The championship match was a rematch against NLCS, who QM had drawn against earlier in the day. It was a tight contest, with Isabel B converting a crucial penalty to keep QM level. However, a late goal from NLCS meant QM had to settle for a well-earned silver medal. While the loss was initially disappointing, the players quickly recognised what a fantastic achievement it was to reach the final and finish second in Division 2.

A huge well done to Co-Captains Olivia B and Elsa S for their outstanding leadership and to the entire squad for their teamwork, skill, and composure under pressure.

Tuesday: U14s Reach the Last 16 in Division 1

For the U14 team, this was their first experience at the National Schools Lacrosse Championships—an exciting but nerve-wracking prospect. Having followed the seniors’ successes on social media, they were eager to make their mark.

Their pool stage saw a mix of results:

• 0-1 loss to Withington
• 3-3 draw with Heathfield
• 2-2 draw against Stowe
• A tough match against St Catherine’s, Bramley, who went on to win the entire tournament

Despite a challenging final pool game, QM’s performances earned them a place in the knockout stages. Facing Abbots Hill in the last 16, the team had a slow start, conceding two early goals. However, they fought back brilliantly in the second half to bring the game level. Pushing hard for a winner, QM came incredibly close, but the match ended in a draw. Under tournament rules, the team that scored first progressed, meaning a narrow and frustrating exit for QM.

Despite the disappointment, this was a fantastic achievement for the U14s. Special recognition goes to Lucinda, who stepped into goal from hockey and made some outstanding saves. Congratulations also to Maddie B, named Most Valuable Player, and India T, voted Players’ Player. This was an incredible learning experience for the squad, and no doubt the first of many national tournaments for them.

A Tournament to Remember

Both teams showed incredible determination, skill, and teamwork across their competitions. From crucial interceptions to last-minute goals, every player contributed to an unforgettable week. A huge thank you to parents, friends, and staff for their support—it meant so much to the teams.

Congratulations to all involved—a fantastic achievement for QM lacrosse!