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In a highly anticipated rematch of the 2024 Division I Ohio State Championship, Olentangy Liberty faced off against St. Xavier at Ohio State.
Ohio State head coach Nick Myers welcomed two of Ohio’s powerhouse programs to the Buckeyes’ turf as the state continues its climb in the national lacrosse spotlight. It was only fitting that a pair of Buckeye commits stood out the most on the night. Resolute 2025s Khalif Hocker and Jake Struck put on a show. It was Hocker and the Bombers that came out on top with a 16-10 victory.
Just two days after head coach Nate Sprong recorded his 200th career win at St. Xavier, the Bombers earned redemption from last year’s title loss. Led by the offensive trio of Hocker, Sprong, and Stegbauer, St. Xavier put together a dominant 16–10 victory.
Despite a six-point effort from Jake Struck, Liberty’s high-powered offense—averaging over 13 goals per game—was held to just 10. Trent Yelton stood tall in goal with 12 saves, while Rowdy Scheer and Ben Lehman delivered a gritty, physical defensive performance. Defensive midfielder August Betz was a force between the lines, using his size and speed to stifle Liberty’s midfield.
St. Xavier vs. Olentangy Liberty Standouts
Khalif Hocker ’25, attack, St. Xavier (Ohio) / Resolute – Ohio State
No one on the field could match Hocker’s blend of speed and strength. He consistently broke down defenders from the high wing, finishing accurately both on the run and with his feet set. Drawing constant attention from Liberty’s defense, Hocker created opportunities off-ball as well. The future Buckeye came out with three goals and two assists.
Luke Sprong ’25, attack, St. Xavier (Ohio) / Resolute – Le Moyne
A dynamic piece of the Bomber offense, Sprong played both initiator and savvy off-ball threat. He tallied a hat trick, each scored in a different way, showing his versatility. Sprong excels at attacking from up the hash and has developed elite off-ball movement—particularly valuable when playing alongside a talent like Hocker.
Spencer Stegbauer ’26, attack, St. Xavier (Ohio) / Resolute
A true slasher, Stegbauer showcased smooth, deceptive dodges that kept defenders on their heels. He consistently drew slides and made the most of them, dissecting the defense with sharp feeds or finishing himself. He wrapped up the game with two goals and three assists.
August Betz ’26, SSDM, St. Xavier (Ohio) / Resolute
At 6-3, Betz brought a physical presence and elite speed to the field. He played tough on-ball defense and made highlight-reel plays in transition, attacking ground balls and clearing with confidence. He matched up impressively with Liberty’s talented midfielders in a breakout performance.
Ben Lehman ’25, defense, St. Xavier (Ohio)
Lehman delivered a career performance when the Bombers needed it most. The lefty defenseman was seemingly everywhere, using quick feet and open-field speed to lock down matchups and scoop up nine ground balls. He added a pair of caused turnovers and was reliable in the clearing game.
Jake Struck ’25, midfield, Olentangy Liberty (Ohio) / Resolute – Ohio State
Struck was arguably the most athletic player on the field and the motor of Liberty’s offense. Using a deep bag of dodges to get to his strong left, he opened the game with a laser step-down goal and never let up. He finished with four goals and two assists, continuing to prove why he’s one of the top players in the country.
