The final Nike/USA Lacrosse High School Girls’ National Top 25 recognizes the accomplishments of the top teams in the country. This year’s ranking ends the way it began — with Darien (Conn.) at No. 1.
It’s rare to see anyone lead wire-to-wire, but the Blue Wave did just that. For a program with a rich history of winning, their unbeaten season was a first and gives them a chance to make a claim to be the best team ever assembled at Darien. Darien was deep and also had a big-time player, Chloe Humphrey, who was huge in the toughest games.
Behind Darien came a mix of accomplished teams. McDonogh (Md.) returned to the top of the IAAM “A” Conference and lost only once all season. St. Paul’s (Md.) remained a powerful contender in conference and nationally, while Maryvale (Md.) enjoyed a breakout season. Bayport-Blue Point (N.Y.) was one of four unbeaten teams along with Darien, Colorado Academy (Colo.) and Manchester Valley (Md.) ranked in the Top 25.
American Heritage-Delray (Fla.) finished in the No. 12 spot, one of the highest rankings for a team from a non-traditional area. And with Colorado Academy (Colo.) coming in at No. 16, it reflects the emergence of national contenders from the likes of Florida, Texas, Colorado and California. The national growth is expected to continue in coming years.
Continue below to see the final National Top 25 of 2023.
