Allison Hawthorne, a standout lacrosse player for La Jolla High School, scored the game-winning goal with just 12 seconds remaining in the CIF San Diego Section Division 1 championship , securing an 11-10 victory over Mt. Carmel High School. this triumph marks the Vikings' first CIF title since 2022, showcasing a dramatic finish in a closely contested match.

The Back-and-Forth Battle

The championship game was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. The first half saw La Jolla and Mt. Carmel trading leads, with the Vikings taking a 7-5 advantage thanks to consecutive goals by Stella Perez. The second half continued this intense competition, as La Jolla extended their lead to 9-6 early in the third quarter, only for Mt. Carmel to rally with a 3-0 run, tying the game at 9-9 with just over nine minutes left in the fourth quarter.

Hawthorne's Heroics

With the game on the line and just 12.3 seconds remaining, Hawthorne was fouled and awarded a shooting space penalty from eight yards out. Instead of driving at the goal, she swiftly fired a precise shot into the top-right corner, securing the victory. Hawthorne revealed that she drew inspiration from a similar situation earlier in the season against Torrey Pines, demonstrating her composure and skill under pressure.

La Jolla's First Title Since 2022

This championship win is a significant achievement for La Jolla High School, as it marks their first CIF title since 2022. The victory not only highlights the team's resilience and determination but also underscores the individual brilliance of players like Hawthorne and Perez, who played pivotal roles in the game.

What's Next for the Vikings

As the Vikings celebrate their hard-earned victory, the focus will now shift to the upcoming season and the challenges that lie ahead. with a talented roster and a proven ability to perform under pressure, La Jolla High School is well-positioned to build on this success and continue to be a force in San Diego Section Division 1 lacrosse.