Adam Udell moves past a defender in the state title game. Udell scored three goals, including the game winner. – Andy Hutchison photo

By Andy Hutchison

FAIRFIELD — Gloves and sticks flew into the air as the Staples boys lacrosse team’s bench unloaded onto the field and players celebrated winning the Class LL State Championship Saturday.

The No. 3 Wreckers edged No. 4 and FCIAC rival Darien 7-6 at Fairfield University’s Rafferty Stadium under drizzle and before packed stands.

Tristan Schaefer and Adam Udell both scored hat-tricks with Schafer knotting the score at 6-6 and Udell following with what turned out to be the decisive tally late in the third quarter.

The deciding goal was made possible, fittingly given the praise the Wreckers got from their coach, by strong play up and down the field.

Udell cashed in on a chance in transition off an assist by Nick Weil following an impressive save by goaltender Josh Marcus (11 saves).

Wrecker players enjoy the moment as the final seconds tick off the clock in their title win. – Andy Hutchison photo

“I think we were incredibly tough all over the field. Our biggest players showed up to play in big moments,” said Staples Coach Will Koshansky, adding that the Wreckers had nice contributions from throughout the lineup.

The Wreckers lost to Darien during the season but were down a handful of starters due to injury and felt they had a good shot.

“It’s so surreal I can’t even explain it. I’m so happy for the guys,” said Udell, adding that the Wreckers worked hard on shooting and finishing in practice and that the effort paid off.

Defense was the name of the game in the final quarter but it was the Staples offense that played an important role in the team holding on. Its best defense was its attack players at times with Staples domination possession in the final period.

Darien did get a few late possessions but the Wreckers stood tall and forced turnovers to thwart their counterparts.

Will Fleming had a goal and, in addition to Weil, Schaefer and Cam Prior had assists.

“It’s just incredible to go out on such a high note like this. It’s the best feeling — there’s nothing like it,” Marcus said.

Andy Hutchison has been covering school sports — including Staples athletics — as well as news and feature stories in Fairfield County, since the 1990s.

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