Woodstick Lacrosse Classic: A Century-Old Rivalry Renewed

In the realm of high school sports rivalries, few matchups carry the weight and history of the Woodstick Lacrosse Classic between Garden City and Manhasset. Dating back to 1935, this annual clash has become a cherished tradition, engrained in the fabric of Long Island’s lacrosse culture. With over 140 games contested between the varsity boys’ programs and a decade-long history for the girls, the Woodstick Classic is more than just a game: it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and camaraderie.

This year’s Woodstick Lacrosse Classic, held at Manhassset High School under clear skies, saw a full day of thrilling action. The event kicked off with the junior varsity girls’ match at 10 am, setting the stage for a day filled with passion and intensity. Garden City narrowly edged out Manhasset with a come from behind 9-8 win, setting the tone for the rest of the day’s contests.

Next up was the boys’ junior varsity showdown at noon, where Garden City continued their dominance, securing a decisive 12-5 victory over their rivals. The stands reverberated with cheers and chants as fans eagerly awaited the main events of the day.

As anticipation reached its peak, the varsity girls took the field in a fiercely contested battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. With both teams refusing to back down, the game stretched into overtime, adding another layer of drama to the storied rivalry. In the end, it was Garden City who emerged victorious on an overtime score by Tori Ottomanelli, clinching a hard-fought win and adding another chapter to their legacy in the Woodstick Classic.

Finally, under the bright stadium field lights, the feature game of the day unfolded as the varsity boys’ teams took center stage. With a crowd buzzing with excitement, Garden City delivered a commanding performance, showcasing their skill and determination from the opening whistle. Despite Manhasset’s valiant efforts, Garden City dominated the game, ultimately triumphing with an impressive final score of 7-2.

The Woodstick Lacrosse Classic is more than just a series of games; it’s a celebration of tradition, sportsmanship, and the enduring bond between communities. Each year, players, coaches, and fans alike come together to honor the legacy of this historic rivalry, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As the sun sets on another chapter of the Woodstick Classic, both Garden City and Manhasset can take pride in upholding a tradition that transcends wins and losses, uniting generations of lacrosse enthusiasts in the spirit of competition and friendship.