A returning US Lacrosse All-American (Michigan), Ben Waechter has already cemented himself as a defensive anchor for Brother Rice. The sophomore helped lead the Warriors to a 19–5 record in 2025, including a 9–8 overtime victory against Detroit Catholic Central to capture the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 State Championship — the program’s 17th title. Ben combines size, anticipation, and elite lacrosse IQ to control the field, shutting down top offensive threats with a steady, commanding presence.

Structured, disciplined, and fiercely competitive, Waechter thrives in organized defensive sets while imposing his own authority. He reads offenses like a seasoned strategist, orchestrating teammates, sliding with precision, and turning pressure into opportunity. His reliability gives Brother Rice a rock-solid foundation on every possession.

What separates Ben is his composure under fire. Whether matched one-on-one, managing slides, or initiating clears, he consistently executes with poise and efficiency. His timing, anticipation, and knack for forcing turnovers make him a momentum-shifting presence and a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Verbally committed to Duke, Ben Waechter projects as a dynamic, cerebral defender at the next level. With discipline, instincts, and controlled aggression, he’s built to anchor the Blue Devils’ defense while fueling the high-octane offense they’re known for.

Waechter was one of the more impactful longpoles in attendance, so it was a bit of a head-scratcher when he didn’t grab a spot in the All-Star Game. Only on my radar after he netted the OT game-winner goal in the Michigan state title game, Waechter does a number of things at a high level. He was a force off the ground, active on-ball with his checks, and disruptive as a cover defender whenever he got dodged. He made some mistakes here and there (at this age, who doesn’t?), but it was noticeable how Waechter quickly redeemed himself with a positive play. He corralled a noticeable amount of groundballs during the event, and did a really nice job in transition, adding a goal in his fifth and final game.