Union turning the page after RIT loss; embracing home NCAA Tournament opportunity
SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- For the fourth time in the last six seasons, the Union men's lacrosse team is hosting an NCAA Tournament game. Some good luck will be needed for any opponent hoping to come out of Schenectady with a win this weekend.
The Garnet Chargers are a perfect 7-0 at home this season and 4-1 on Frank Bailey Field in the tournament since 2019. They'll host MAC Commonwealth champion Stevenson on Saturday in second round-action.
Union is hoping to wipe the slate clean after a 26-9 loss to RIT in the Liberty League tournament, and this is the perfect opportunity to do it.
"Hopes were a little down on Saturday after a big loss to RIT, but that's a good program," said senior goalie Dan Donahue. "We had a good feeling we would be in, and [hearing our name called] definitely lifted our spirits. That's the beauty of the NCAA Tournament; everyone gets a fresh start. Our record in the past doesn't matter. It's all about the future, Saturday. It's just one game at a time, but we're excited. I think we're ready to go."
"It's one of our team goals, to make the NCAA [Tournament]," added head coach Derek Witheford. "Doing it [three] years in a row...says a lot about the senior class and this program in general. It also speaks to the consistency, I think, of the program. I'm proud of where we're at, and happy to be hosting."
Opening faceoff between Union and Stevenson on Saturday is set for 3:00 p.m.