Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 3/25/26
From Press Release
The rivalry between Springfield-Delco Boys Lacrosse and Ridley Boys Lacrosse adds another chapter this week as the two programs meet in the 2nd Annual Stu Brown Cup on Thursday night at Ridley High School. Faceoff is set for 7:00 PM.
Springfield enters the matchup as the defending holder of the Stu Brown Cup, having won the inaugural game last season. For the past year, the Cougars have kept the trophy in their possession, with Ridley set to host this year’s contest.
More than just a rivalry game, the Stu Brown Cup represents the lasting legacy of a man who helped build both programs into perennial powers.
Stu Brown, known to many as “The Father of Springfield Lacrosse,” dedicated his life to growing the sport and shaping generations of players, coaches, and families. In 1969, he launched youth lacrosse in Springfield, laying the groundwork for what has become one of the area’s most respected programs.
His impact, however, extended well beyond Springfield. In the 1970s, Brown served as an advisor in helping to establish Ridley’s youth lacrosse program. Years later, from 1995 to 2001, he was a member of the Ridley High School coaching staff, contributing to four state championship runs. His passion for the game and commitment to teaching it the right way helped bridge a fierce rivalry and unite two communities through lacrosse.
Together, Springfield and Ridley have combined for 12 state championships, a testament to the strength and tradition of both programs—and the foundation Brown helped build.
As part of this year’s game, four honorary captains have been selected to represent the deep connection both programs share with Brown’s legacy. Dave DiPaola and Dan Plank will serve as honorary captains for Springfield, while Dave Mullen and Sean Ralph will represent Ridley.
Each has been tasked with speaking to their respective teams this week, sharing stories and lessons about Stu and the impact he had not only on their lives, but on the game of lacrosse in their communities.
Thursday night’s matchup will once again be about more than just the final score. It will be about honoring a legacy, celebrating a shared history, and competing for something that represents decades of dedication to the sport.
With pride, tradition, and the Stu Brown Cup on the line, expect another memorable chapter in one of Delaware County’s premier lacrosse rivalries.
