How Ensworth boys lacrosse went from 1 win to TSSAA state title in two years
Cooper Rice, WhitmerJones each scored five goals to lead Ensworth boys to the TSSAA Division II-A state championship over Knoxville Webb.
FRANKLIN − Ensworth's Cooper Rice and Whitmer Jones had more than hat tricks up their sleeves May 16 during the TSSAA Division II Class A boys lacrosse state championship at Centennial High School. Cooper, a junior attacker, and Jones, a sophomore midfielder, each scored five goals during the Tigers' 17-5 victory against Knoxville Webb. After getting his hands on the trophy afterward, Rice reflected on the long short journey it took for him and the Tigers to get to this point.
"Coming from being like 1-14 two years ago, and getting all these great coaches," said Rice, who also had four assists and zero turnovers. "I knew we had it, but it's surreal to actually be able to do it now. "It's so wonderful.
" Making the day doubly wonderful for the Tigers was the girls team winning a state championship the same day. Coaches on the sideline were receiving updates while their team was playing. And the Tigers, who finished the season 16-3, were playing well.
Jones scored three of his goals in succession during the first half. He also pitched in an assist and turned the ball over zero times. "I give most of the credit to Coach (Parker Ferrigan)," Jones said.