Jordan Faison’s dual-sport journey continues as Notre Dame prepares for its NCAA lacrosse tournament debut against Ohio State. The unseeded Irish (8-4) are set to clash with No. 4-seed Ohio State (14-2) in Columbus, Ohio, marking yet another opportunity for Faison to take on the Scarlet and Gray, especially after their previous encounter in the College Football Playoff final.
After a demanding 600 days of competition, Faison, who balances both football and lacrosse, has remained a formidable athlete. His career highlights include clinching MVP honors in the 2023 Sun Bowl and contributing significantly to the Irish lacrosse team, which captured the national championship in back-to-back years.
However, this spring season has posed challenges for Faison. He’s managed just 11 points (eight goals and three assists) over ten games as he recovered from an ankle injury that limited him early in the season. His limited scoring in recent games means there’s a pressing need for him to rise to the occasion as his team heads into NCAA competition.
Faison emphasizes the importance of motivation as he balances the two sports. Juggling football and lacrosse has required him to adapt his practice time, but he remains committed to both teams. Despite being sidelined by injury earlier in the season, he’s optimistic about his performance as the tournament approaches.
In prior games, including a closely contested match against Ohio State, Faison displayed his fighting spirit and resilience. Reflecting on that game, he noted the competitiveness it showcased, reinforcing the need for the team to consistently work hard in practice and stay focused.
With the NCAA tournament on the horizon, Faison believes his game is on an upward trajectory and is determined to thrive in this decisive moment. “It’s win or go home, so you have to put it all out there,” he stated, indicating a commitment to give his best in the postseason.
The combination of Faison’s dynamic skills and a robust Notre Dame offense sets the stage for potentially exciting outcomes as they aim to show their capabilities in the postseason. The Irish, despite facing challenges this season, are focused on showcasing their prowess in the NCAA tournament, with Faison’s performance likely to be a pivotal factor in their success.