Syracuse midfielder Sam English, who previously played for Princeton, is set to face his old team in a highly anticipated matchup in the NCAA Lacrosse Championship. The sixth-seeded Syracuse Orange will meet the third-seeded Princeton Tigers on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Hofstra’s James M. Shuart Stadium, giving English a chance to help his current team break an 11-year absence from the Final Four.
After moving from Princeton to Syracuse due to Ivy League rules that prevent graduate students from competing, English’s competitive spirit drives him to succeed against his former teammates. The matchup takes on added significance as both programs are historically successful in college lacrosse; Syracuse leads with 10 national championships, while Princeton ranks fourth with six.
This season has been a standout for English. He has contributed significantly to the Orange’s success, ranking fifth on the team with 21 goals and fourth with 11 assists. His performance in faceoffs has been particularly notable, as Syracuse’s specialist John Mullen boasts a top-three win percentage nationally.
Teammates view this game as particularly important for English, not out of bitterness, but because of his competitive nature. “He’s said this is not the one he wants to lose,” said Syracuse senior Owen Hiltz.
As the game approaches, English expresses a mix of excitement and nerves, acknowledging the unique challenges of playing against a familiar team. His leadership and skills are expected to be critical factors in the upcoming duel, where victory could not only provide personal satisfaction but also propel Syracuse towards its championship aspirations.
The game promises to be thrilling, providing fans with an intense atmosphere as both teams seek to claim their spot in the national semifinals. With each squad showcasing impressive statistics and talent, the outcome remains uncertain, making this clash a must-watch for lacrosse enthusiasts.