The LSU men’s lacrosse program is on the rise like never before, pulling off a hard fought 9-8 victory against Florida on Saturday to cap off a 3-0 start. It’s the best in LSU history and good for first place in their division.
The team was founded in 1973, but had never qualified for the Lone Star Alliance playoffs before last season. Coach Jeff Echols led the Tigers to their best regular season ever in his inaugural season, and they are on pace to follow with a stronger campaign in 2015.
The Tigers swept a doubleheader to begin the season, defeating Texas A&M 19-11 and Ole Miss 12-6. It set up a clash between two undefeated teams that LSU won to make school history.
“In previous years, the guys did not expect to walk on the field and win every game and we began to build that last year,” Echols said. “They truly believe in themselves this year and they think they can win every game.”
LSU has been led on offense by upperclassmen Hunter Stinson, Josh Henderson and Thomas Brown, who have combined for more than half of the goals this season. The team has also been strong on defense led by senior goalkeeper Rick Battista.
Batista had 15 saves against Florida in what Echols called one of the best goalkeeping performances he’s ever seen.
“Our communication on defense was huge,” Battista said. “It was a fun experience for everyone on the team.”
The playoff system in Lacrosse is similar to college basketball. LSU can qualify for the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association tournament by winning their conference tournament or can make it with at-large bid.
Echols credited the strong start to his staff who have helped him to turn the program around.
“My assistant head coach Bret Smith has added balance to the coaching staff,” Echols said. “This year we added two new coaches, both LSU graduates: Jordan Ramirez and Erza Winters who are outstanding young coaches.”
He also credited the players, who he said have a winning mentality.
Both players and coaches have set the bar high for this season. Although LSU has never won a playoff game, Echols said this team is hungry and capable of big things.
“We fully believe that we’ll make the playoffs and win the first game,” Echols said. “It is our goal to win the conference championship this year.”
The Tigers will try to make it 4-0 Friday night against Auburn at 7 p.m. at the UREC fields. All home games are free to LSU students.