A New Trier dynasty

New Trier celebrates its state championship win over Loyola.
(Scott Powers/For the Sun-Times)

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Chants of “dynasty” erupted from New Trier’s players and fans moments after the Trevians defeated Loyola 7-1 in the lacrosse state championship at Toyota Park in Bridgeview on Sunday.

Being the fourth state championship in four years for New Trier, even the rival Ramblers couldn’t dispute the Trevians’ claim.

Legacy, it was.

“The first is as sweet as the last and everything in between,” said New Trier goalie Mitch Williamson, who protected the net for all four titles.

New Trier’s defense and Williamson – along with the goal’s posts – came up big against Loyola, which came into the game averaging more than seven goals a game.

The Ramblers (11-5) took an early 1-0 lead on a powerful shot by Matt Hickey in the first quarter, but from there New Trier (12-2) couldn’t be beaten. Playing a box-and-two zone, the Trevians frustrated Loyola’s offense and allowed few scoring opportunities. Loyola took up minutes of the clock passing the ball around to find a shot.

When the Ramblers did find a hole, luck was on New Trier’s side. About half a dozen times the ball clanked off the post.

“They have a very powerful offense,” said New Trier coach John Combs, whose first season coaching the Trevians began championship reign. “We’ve been playing well, but was I surprised to hold them to one goal? No doubt. Our goalie played well, but we caught some breaks.”

Williamson agreed

“I got a lot of help from the pipes,” Williamson said.

With the defense keeping Loyola in check, New Trier’s offense responded. Steve Shapiro tied the game at 1-1 with a one-timer near the net off a pass from Chris Sweitzer in the second quarter. Kevin Newton put the Trevians ahead later in the quarter.

Senior Augie Remien put on one-man show, fighting away through Loyola’s defense for the insurance third goal.

“I just wanted to score,” Remien said. “We were up 2-1, and I got the ball and I wanted to score. I wasn’t going to be stopped. … The championships have definitely got better and better every year. This was the best being a senior captain.”

David Gustman (two goals), Hudson Chodos (one goal) and Ben de Albuquerque (one goal) contributed for New Trier. Of course, beating rival Loyola for the third time in the legacy run added to New Trier’s celebration.

“We live with these kids, they live on our blocks,” Williamson said. “There’s a bitterness and friendships off the field. It makes it even sweeter.”