News Summary
The Air Force Academy men’s lacrosse team made history by winning their first ASUN Championship against Utah. The thrilling match ended in a close 11-10 victory, showcasing exceptional performances from key players. Calean Driggs led the Falcons with four goals, while goalkeeper Jake Marek was named tournament MVP for his critical saves. With a record of 8-7, the team is poised for upcoming NCAA Tournament challenges, reflecting their growth and determination within collegiate lacrosse.
Jacksonville, FL — The Air Force Academy men’s lacrosse team achieved a historic milestone by clinching their first ASUN Championship on May 4, 2025, after triumphing over Utah with a narrow final score of 11-10 at Jacksonville University’s Rock Stadium.
The victory came as Air Force displayed determination in the final quarter, scoring three consecutive goals to secure the championship. Until that point, the game saw Utah leading 9-8 at the conclusion of the third quarter, illustrating a tightly contested match throughout. Overall, the two teams were evenly matched, with the score being tied eight times during the game.
Calean Driggs emerged as a standout player for the Falcons, leading the team in scoring with four goals. His key contributions were vital in turning the momentum in favor of Air Force. Luke Vransky scored the critical final goal for Air Force with just 6:26 remaining, giving his team an 11-9 lead. Shortly after, Ryan Stines managed to score for Utah, closing the gap, but the Utes were unable to convert on five additional shot attempts, leading to their defeat.
In recognition of his exceptional performance throughout the tournament, Jake Marek, the goalkeeper for Air Force, was named tournament MVP. Marek’s critical saves, including two deflected shots in the closing minutes of the match, played a crucial role in preserving Air Force’s slim lead and securing their first championship title.
The overall record for the Falcons now stands at 8-7 for the season, a commendable result that showcases their growth and capability. The win not only marks a significant achievement for the team but also sets the stage for their upcoming challenges.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Air Force is scheduled to host Robert Morris on May 7, 2025, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. This match represents another opportunity for the Falcons to further solidify their presence in collegiate lacrosse. The winner of this match will move on to face the national second seed Maryland on May 11, 2025, indicating the challenges and stakes involved in the postseason.
Individual Highlights
The championship match also saw impressive performances from players on the opposing side. Luke McNamera from Utah made a mark by scoring three goals, contributing to a valiant effort from his team. Additionally, Jacksonville University’s Jackson Intrieri was honored by being named to the All-Tournament team and finished his season as the all-time leading scorer for his program with an impressive 229 points.
Context of the Championship
This ASUN Championship is a significant achievement for the Air Force Academy men’s lacrosse team, reflecting their hard work and collective effort throughout the season. The excitement surrounding this victory resonates not only within the team but also amongst supporters and the academy community as they anticipate the NCAA Tournament’s subsequent stages.
The team’s ability to maintain composure in tight situations, as demonstrated in the championship game, underscores their potential as they look to further advance in the NCAA competitive landscape. The Falcons have set a precedent with this championship, signaling their arrival as a formidable force in college lacrosse.
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Additional Resources
- Air Force Surges Past Jacksonville in ASUN Semifinals
- Air Force Takes on Jacksonville in ASUN Semifinals
- Calean Driggs Leads Air Force to ASUN Championship
- ASUN Men’s Lacrosse Postseason Honors Announced
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lacrosse
