81 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Every spring sports season, state titles have become so commonplace among area high schools that winning alone isn’t enough anymore, as teams try to set new records, shut out all playoff opponents and in some cases, finish undefeated. Behind all the trophies and records, however, are athletes who prove to be catalysts or even the difference between celebrations and what-ifs. Here are the standout players in a variety of spring sports who intend to help their teams bring home the hardware in 2026. WANDO BOYS LACROSSE Since 2010, every high school lacrosse team from near and far has been looking to knock off the Wando boys, but they may as well have been using tarot cards and tea leaves. The Warriors have not only reached the state final for 13 straight seasons, but last year notched the school’s ninth state title since 2010. Head coach Lance Renes is primed to make it 10, as he returns almost all of his offensive power, including All-Lowerstate senior midfielder Connor Bennet. “Our athletes are prepared for a challenging 2026 schedule consisting of nine opponents from states across the Southeast,” said Renes, now in his 15th year. “With the number of returning players, our chances to repeat look good.” Those chances will rely heavily on Bennet, who scored 18 goals and tallied 13 assists last season, and committed in his junior year to play at Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. “Connor comes through in the clutch by securing a ground ball when we need possession or scoring at key moments when we need a goal,” Renes said. “His athleticism and field sense will contribute to our success between the restraining lines.” The only lingering question now is: Will Bennet and the Warriors get that perfect 10 in 2026? “There’s definitely pride in what our Wando program has accomplished,” Bennet said. “If we stay true to our culture and hold each other accountable, we’ll put ourselves in a position to compete for another state title.” Spring STANDOUTS Keep an eye on these top talents BY L. C. LEACH III our sports Eying another state lacrosse title, Wando’s Connor Bennet and a loaded Warriors team are aiming for a perfect 10.
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