CASTINE, Maine — The Husson University men's lacrosse team powered past top-seeded Maine Maritime Academy in a high-scoring North Atlantic Conference Championship matchup on Sunday afternoon, earning a 16-12 victory at Ritchie Field, as the Eagles captured their first-ever conference title in men's lacrosse.
Husson's (12-4) offense was firing from the opening whistle, with the Eagles scoring four goals in the first quarter to take an early lead. Sophomore Dominic Hollenkamp opened the scoring on a man-up opportunity off a feed from sophomore Taylor Schwalje before sophomore Drew Clinch and Schwalje each added goals. Senior Kiernan Field capped the quarter with a tally to give Husson a 4-3 advantage after one.
The Eagles created separation in the second quarter, pouring in six goals to build a 10-7 halftime lead. Hollenkamp and Field each scored multiple times in the frame, while sophomore Drew Held and Schwalje contributed to the offensive surge. Husson capitalized on its opportunities throughout the half, consistently finding openings and converting on extra-man chances.
Husson continued its momentum into the third quarter, extending the lead behind a dominant stretch from Hollenkamp, who added two more goals in the period. Freshman Gabe Robinson also netted twice in the quarter, including a man-up goal, as the Eagles pushed their advantage to 14-9 heading into the final 15 minutes.
In the fourth, Schwalje and Hollenkamp each found the back of the net to maintain control despite a late push from Maine Maritime. The Eagles held off the comeback effort, securing the four-goal victory.
Hollenkamp led the way with a dominant seven-goal performance, while Field added three goals and an assist. Robinson finished with two goals and an assist, and Schwalje recorded five points on two goals and three assists. Clinch and Held each contributed a goal and multiple assists to round out the balanced attack.
Husson controlled key areas of the game, including a 53-49 edge in ground balls and a 21-for-24 mark on clears. The Eagles also converted three extra-man opportunities while limiting Maine Maritime's chances.
In goal, senior Odin Burk made 13 saves to anchor the defense and earn the victory, as Husson set a new single-season program record for wins.
After the game, Field was named Most Valuable Player of the North Atlantic Conference Tournament.
The Eagles now turn their attention to the NCAA Division III Men's Lacrosse National Championship Tournament, as they will battle Massachusetts Maritime Academy in the first round on Wednesday with the time of the game to be announced.
