Men’s Lacrosse Geared Up For New Season As Member Of New Conference

After helping form the brand-new Atlantic Lacrosse Conference (ALC) this offseason, the Liberty men’s lacrosse team will officially begin its season against Indiana University Friday, March 5, as it moves away from the SELC. 

This will be the Flames first regular season game since March 7, 2020, when Liberty downed Clemson 14-8. Little did they know then that game would be their last for nearly a year – but after two preseason scrimmages, the team is finally getting ready to begin its first season in the ALC.  

Senior defender Steven Prevett said although the cancellations last year were disappointing, the team is ready for the challenge of a new conference and set of opponents. 

“We were really bummed about what happened last year and we just never got our shot at the national championship,” Prevett said. “Everyone has just been grinding in practice, and we are ready to go play anybody, anywhere.” 

With teams navigating the offseason’s COVID-19 restrictions, Prevett says the team’s chemistry has helped the players stay focused, especially with the uncertainty of a new environment.

“Our team has a solid brotherhood,” Prevett said. “We have carried that over (from last year) and it shows.” 

The Flames two scrimmages so far this season included a 19-6 win against Southern Virginia University (NCAA DIII) and a 15-12 win against Roanoke College (NCAA DIII), both on the road. Kyle McQuillan is entering his 10th season as the Flames head coach and says the scrimmages against NCAA teams were a great opportunity to get the team back up to speed after such a long time off. 

“We are grateful for every opportunity we get,” McQuillan said. “We had some scrimmages the past couple of weeks against some NCAA programs, and that was a great opportunity to get some of our guys out to get some reps.” 

With a new conference and a season where COVID-19 cases can easily change schedules, however, McQuillan knows his team’s ability to keep an open mind is critical. 

“We recognize that we are going to have to be flexible and there are probably going to be some changes to our schedule,” McQuillan said. “We feel that if you have a grateful attitude when you come to practice, school or whatever it is that you are doing, it helps set the tone for things.” 

Last season, the Flames held a 6-0 record before cancellations struck, including victories over recent rival Virginia Tech and Michigan State. Assistant Coach Mike Zumpano is eager to get back to some unfinished business. 

“On the field we are looking to improve our connectiveness as a team,” Zumpano said. “We really had begun that journey last year, then got six games into the season, and everything broke apart. We did not really get to solidify our unity as a team. Being able to continue that journey will hopefully make us a lot stronger coming out.” 

Zac Zehnder is a Sports Reporter. Follow him on Twitter at @zaczehnder.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *