The men's lacrosse team has entered the RMAC conference for the 2024 season after being named national champions at the MCLA level last year. Men's lacrosse is now an NCAA sport, which has brought a whole new set of competition.

The team had a challenging start to the season, playing some of the top-ranked schools in the conference. “Obviously it hasn't been the start we were hoping for but it was trial-by-fire playing the top-ranked teams in our conference and seeing what it takes to compete with and beat teams at this level,” said Chad McFadden, senior.

McFadden has been a key piece to this team in his time at Concordia. So far this season, McFadden has had 20 points and five assists. McFadden has also stepped up as team captain this year. ”I've been extremely fortunate to have had great captains in my time here, who have been role models for me both on and off the field and if I can provide that for any of my teammates it will be a complete success,” he said.

“We have all the pieces to be a great team this year, we just have to continue to learn and get better every day,” said McFadden.

Even after some tough losses, the team remains confident in its ability to be a top competitor at the NCAA Division II level. “It is only motivating us to become better and turn the season around to end on a high note,” said Daniel Yang, a junior goalie on the team.

Yang already has 66 saves so far this season. He's also set big goals for both himself and the team. He hopes to become a Division II All-American and for his team to win another conference championship. 

The team just had a two-week break from games, giving them time to make any changes or improvements they needed. “It's all about us right now, and once we figure out how good we can be, we will be a dangerous team,” said senior defensive player, Braden Schneider. The men chose not to focus on what other teams were doing, but to work on their own areas of improvement. 

Schneider began contributing to the success of the team immediately after transferring to Concordia during his sophomore year. He was named Third Team All-American in 2023, after an impressive season on the team's defense. 

To start the second half of the season, the men will hit the road for a series of games in Colorado and Utah, which start today, before returning for their next home game on April 12 versus Colorado State Pueblo for Staff & Teacher Appreciation Night at Golden Eagles Field. For more game times and other season details, head to cuigoldeneagles.com.  

Tags: Men's Athletics, Lacrosse

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