The UAlbany men’s lacrosse team is one step closer to the NCAA tournament after winning the America East championship. The Great Danes secured an automatic qualifier for the tournament and will play one more game at home this season, facing Sacred Heart in the opening round game at Casey Stadium.
This matchup will mark the first ever meeting between UAlbany and Sacred Heart. The Pioneers earned their first trip to the NCAA tournament after going undefeated in the MAAC and winning the conference title. Head coach Scott Marr acknowledged the strength of their opponent, emphasizing the importance of respecting their competition and staying focused.
Coach Marr addressed his team during practice to ensure they were prepared for the upcoming game. The Great Danes will be making their 11th appearance in the NCAA tournament and their first since 2018. The team secured their 10th America East title after defeating Vermont in the championship game.
Looking ahead, Jake Piseno, a graduate long-stick midfielder, expressed the team’s desire to continue their journey to South Bend and spend more time together as they focus on being 1-0 in their next game against Sacred Heart. If they win this matchup, they will face Notre Dame, the number 1 overall seed and defending national champions, in South Bend in a first round game scheduled for 7 p.m., Wednesday night at Casey Stadium