The State College Area High School boys lacrosse team is moving on in the PIAA Class 3A State Tournament after securing a hard-fought 9-8 victory over Pine-Richland in the opening round on June 2 .
In a game that featured momentum swings, physical play, and a playoff atmosphere from start to finish, the Little Lions found a way to come through in the biggest moments. With both teams battling for a chance to continue their season, neither side was willing to give an inch.
State College came into the matchup with confidence after an impressive regular season and strong performances throughout the year. That confidence showed early as the Little Lions established themselves on both ends of the field, creating scoring opportunities while also limiting Pine-Richland’s offensive chances.
Leading the offensive attack was junior Trey Combs, who finished with a standout performance of three goals and three assists. Combs consistently created opportunities for himself and his teammates, helping drive the Little Lions’ offense throughout the contest.
State College also received goals from sophomores Aaron Brushwood, Angus Kimble, Reece Tyson, junior Luke Ladrido, and senior Connor Young, with contributions coming from across the lineup as the Little Lions found ways to answer every Pine-Richland challenge.
Despite State College’s strong start, Pine-Richland continued to respond throughout the game. Every time the Little Lions appeared ready to pull away, Pine-Richland found an answer to keep the contest close. The result was a back-and-forth battle that remained competitive deep into the fourth quarter.
As the game entered its final minutes, State College held a narrow one-goal lead. The pressure intensified as Pine-Richland pushed aggressively for the equalizer. The Little Lions’ defense was put to the test, facing several key possessions that could have changed the outcome.
One player who felt the pressure was Combs.
“I was so stressed out it wasn’t even funny,” Combs said. “I was almost terrified because it was such a stressful moment.”
However, State College remained composed under pressure. Senior goalkeeper Brody Downs delivered one of the biggest performances of the night, making 17 saves and repeatedly coming up with clutch stops to preserve the lead. His efforts in net proved critical as Pine-Richland increased the pressure late in the game.
When the final horn sounded, the Little Lions emerged with a 9-8 victory, sending players, coaches, and fans into celebration. The win not only extended State College’s season but also demonstrated the team’s resilience and determination in one of its toughest games of the year.
According to Combs, the team’s ability to regroup at halftime played a major role in the victory.
“After halftime, instead of pointing fingers and being bad teammates, we completely reset and went back to the basics of playing offense and defense,” Combs said.
The victory reflects the culture that has been built within the program throughout the season. State College has consistently shown its ability to compete against strong opponents, relying on teamwork, discipline, and preparation to achieve success. Those qualities were on full display in the game against Pine-Richland.
The win also carries extra meaning for a program that has struggled to get past the opening round in recent years.
“It feels shocking but rewarding because we haven’t had this since COVID,” Combs said. “We seem to keep losing in the first round, so getting over the hump and playing another good team is extremely exciting.”
With momentum on their side and a spot in the quarterfinals secured, the Little Lions will now prepare for a showdown with Manheim Township in Mechanicsburg on June 6 . A victory would send State College to the PIAA Class 3A semifinals and move the team one step closer to its championship goals.
