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#2 Syracuse opens the 2025 season in dominant fashion with win over Jacksonville

Syracuse players in white jerseys gather at midfield
Cuse.com
Syracuse’s attack celebrates one of it’s 24 goals against Jacksonville

To say expectations for #2 Syracuse Men’s Lacrosse (1-0, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) this year are high would be an understatement. The Orange had their highest preseason ranking in over a decade and returned many key contributors from last year. Yet, Saturday’s 24-5 thrashing over Jacksonville (0-1, 0-0 Atlantic Sun Conference) blew those expectations out the water. SU dominated in every aspect of the game, and head coach Gary Gait was pleased with the result.

“Awesome team effort,” Gait said. “These guys did an incredible job. They took the prep seriously, and went out today and executed as a team.”

A lot of that execution fell on familiar faces from last year's squad. Attackman Joey Spallina, midfielder Michael Leo and midfielder Luke Rhoa all had at least a hat trick, including Leo’s career high 4 goals. The preseason third team All-American credits this strong start to a sense of trust within the team.

“I practice with these guys all week so I’m just super comfortable playing with them,” Leo said.

Syracuse attackman Michael Leo celebrating a goal
Cuse.com
Michael Leo (7, white) tied a career high with four goals

Part of the success, however, also fell on younger and less experienced players like attackman Trey Deere. The sophomore only appeared in five games last year but dazzled fans with a four point performance, including two goals.

On the other end of the field, newer contributors also stepped up to help SU get the win. Redshirt sophomore Jimmy McCool made his first career start in net and allowed only two goals. Gait was especially impressed by the Boston native’s performance.

“Jimmy McCool got comfortable in there and made some great saves,” Gait said.

The defense, as a whole, shut down Jacksonville’s attack, allowing only one six-on-six goal. Syracuse hopes to carry over this performance into Friday’s game against Vermont. The Orange walked over the Catamounts last year 20-7. Gametime is set for 6, with WAER’s coverage beginning at 5:30 with McClurg Remodeling Countdown To Faceoff.