A new season brings new expectations, and the energy surrounding the SAU lacrosse programs reflects exactly that. After months of offseason training, both the men’s and women’s players say they are entering 2026 with renewed focus, stronger chemistry, and a shared belief this year can be special.
Players and coaches alike say there is a noticeable difference in intensity, preparation, and confidence compared to previous seasons.
“With our fast scoring and physical defense,” says men’s sophomore defensive midfielder Alex Wirth. “We are definitely a team to watch this season.”
Men’s Head Coach Dev shares that confidence, pointing to the team’s returning talent.
“The young core we kept from last year goes into this year. We have so much potential we haven’t even reached yet,” he says. “Fans should expect fast pace, high intensity, big hits with a little bit of flashiness from our attack.”
On the women’s side, Assistant Coach Allie Ruggiero believes the team’s foundation starts with growth and trust. “One of our goals this year includes growth. We want our lacrosse IQ, our mental and physical toughness, and our ability to trust one another in big moments to always strengthen. We want the ladies to build habits that last beyond one season.”
That excitement isn’t just about wins and losses, it’s about growth, identity, and a team that has put in the work long before the first whistle.
Who These Teams Are
This year’s roster blends experienced veterans with emerging new contributors, creating a balance of leadership and fresh perspective.
For the women, Karsen Jummati, the sophomore midfielder is one of the team’s key returning leaders.
Coach Allie says the team’s personality and energy have stood out immediately. “One of the things that excites me most about this year’s women’s team is their incredible energy. It’s consistent and shows up every single day. They celebrate the little things, they compete hard in drills, and they bring positive momentum to the field.”
On the men’s side is Ayden Fraelle, a senior offensive midfielder who brings experience and consistency to the lineup.
Men’s Head Coach Dev emphasized that his team’s chemistry makes them unique as well. “Got a fun group of guys that always keep me on my toes. All of them are something special and make this team special.”
“Conference Champs or Bust”
For both teams, success in 2026 is defined by growth, development, and competing at the highest level possible.
Coach Dev has made the men’s expectations clear. “Conference champs or bust!”
Coach Allie emphasizes building confidence and depth across her roster. “Another important goal for us is building depth and confidence across the roster. We want every player to feel confident, supported, and empowered to step into any moment.”
Players share that same determination. Junior midfielder Cailey Kramer says her personal goals are “to get better with my free position shots and to build my confidence.”
Sophomore defensive midfielder Garrett Lee adds, “A successful season looks like winning conference and going to the national tournament.”
Worship and Support Drive Preparations
Preparation began months ago, with players committing themselves both physically and mentally.
“I listen to worship music and focus on entering a good head space before games,” Alex Wirth says.
Karsen Jummati relies on her support system. “Mentally, I talk to my parents, they are my biggest supporters and always have something encouraging to say to me before I step out on the field, and physically, of course eye black.”
Both coaches emphasize the importance of maintaining consistency and health throughout the season.
Coach Allie adds, “Consistency will be our biggest challenge. With a demanding schedule and the physical nature of our sport, we have to be intentional about recovery and taking care of our bodies so we can show up ready for every game.”
Trust, Accountability, and Energy
One of the strongest foundations of both programs is their culture. Players describe locker rooms built on trust, accountability, and energy.
“It’s very fun and energetic, we always have music going and guys getting hype and ready to play,” describes freshman midfielder Kai Hays.
Karsen Jummati says the women’s team shares a similar bond. “We arrive around an hour early so for the first 30 minutes everyone is getting changed and doing their hair so we’re mainly to ourselves until about 20 minutes before we go out, we’re blasting music and hyping each other up for the game to come, coming out of that locker room you feel powerful.”
What’s Changing in 2026
With a new season comes adjustments. Players say they are focusing on smarter decision-making and stronger teamwork.
“As an offense, (we need to) put more goals in the back of the net and work better together as a unit,” says junior attacker Kathleen McGlynn.
These changes reflect more experienced teams ready to compete at a higher level.
Beyond team success, players are focused on personal development.
“I want to improve on my offensive abilities, especially coming from clears and being a threat on both sides of the field,” Garrett Lee says.
Athletes also say the season has already helped them grow mentally.
“I’ve learned to allow myself to fail,” Karsen Jummati says. “I used to be upset after every dropped pass or bad shot, but now I focus on using my errors to improve my game.”
This growth strengthens both individual performance and team success.
Fuel From Last Season
Coach Dev believes his team is ready for another run. “Watching us make another conference run, this one will be a good one.”
Coach Allie points to the women’s program’s consistent success as motivation.
“Since starting the program in 2017, we’ve made it to the conference playoffs every year,” she says.
Locked In
As the new season begins, both teams share a clear sense of purpose. With strong leadership, improved preparation, and a united mindset, they are ready to compete.
Coach Allie says fans should pay attention even before the game begins. “Fans should keep an eye on our lineup announcement. That’s when you truly feel the energy of this group. It’s a fun, electric moment that captures who we are before the whistle even blows.”
She also believes the passion and excitement of the players make the experience special. “The ladies’ hugs and celebrations after a goal make it all worth watching.”
Men’s players share that excitement as well. “Winning conference, making it to the national tournament, but also supporting each other as a team,” Kai Hays affirms are his goals.
With the support of their teammates, coaches, and fans, both programs are entering the season with confidence, energy, and belief.
The message is clear: the goals are high, the preparation is complete, and all eyes are on the net.
Keep up with both of these teams here!
