Notre Dame lacrosse has long been a powerhouse in the world of collegiate sports. The Fighting Irish have consistently raised the bar, becoming one of the premier programs in NCAA men's lacrosse. With two consecutive national titles behind them, the Irish now set sights on an unprecedented third championship—an achievement last reached by Princeton in the late 1990s.

The 2025 Season: A New Challenge

The current NCAA tournament journey tests Notre Dame lacrosse in new ways. Entering the bracket unseeded and ranked eighth, the Irish face formidable opponents from the start. Their opening match pits them against an in-form Ohio State team, who edged out Notre Dame in a tight 10-9 contest earlier this spring. Learn more about the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame matchup.

Despite these challenges, Notre Dame brings a wealth of postseason experience. The Irish have made 18 NCAA Championship appearances in the past 19 years, advancing to the quarterfinals twelve times in the last fourteen tournaments. Their consistent success and deep runs have cemented them as one of the most reliable programs in the sport. Read the official tournament preview for more details about their postseason history and the current roster’s strengths.

Standout Stars and Depth

Several players have stepped up for Notre Dame lacrosse this season. Chris Kavanagh, a senior attackman, leads the team both in points and spirit. Kavanagh’s performance has broken program records and electrified fans. Key defenders like Shawn Lyght and the midfield crew have helped keep the Irish among the nation's stingiest defensive units.

Graduate student Jake Taylor is another name to watch. His finishing ability in front of goal has turned close games in Notre Dame’s favor throughout the year. Meanwhile, faceoff specialist Will Lynch has dominated the center circle, giving the Irish valuable possessions.

The Impact of Two-Sport Athletes

What sets this team apart is the influence of multi-sport athletes, most notably Jordan Faison. Faison splits time between football and lacrosse, bringing dynamism and adaptability to the field. Although his dual commitments delayed his lacrosse start this year, Faison’s late-season rise has provided an extra spark. Fellow football crossover Tyler Buchner has also contributed defensively. For a deeper look into Faison’s journey and the unique challenges Notre Dame faces this season, visit this feature on two-sport star Jordan Faison.

A Balanced Attack and Strong Defense

Notre Dame’s gameplay is defined by balance and depth. Offensively, the Irish average nearly 14 goals per game—ranking them among the nation’s elite. Ten different players have hit double digits in points, making their attack unpredictable and hard to defend.

Defensively, Notre Dame is allowing just 9.0 goals per game, leading the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Standout performances from the backline and aggressive play in the midfield have turned defense into attack, driving the Irish toward another deep postseason run.

Looking Forward: The Road to History

The quest for a third straight national title is not just about individual talent. It’s forged from team culture, consistency, and a resilient attitude. Each member of Notre Dame lacrosse—veterans and newcomers alike—brings experience and hunger to the field.

Whether they’re the favorite or the underdog, the Irish have what it takes to seize another championship moment. Success in this year’s NCAA tournament could see them etch their name alongside the legends of college lacrosse. To stay up-to-date on Notre Dame lacrosse's performance, follow the official team updates and schedule.

In summary, Notre Dame lacrosse is poised for another defining chapter. Their journey, filled with passion, grit, and determination, continues to inspire fans and set new standards in the world of collegiate lacrosse. Stay tuned for more thrilling moments as the Fighting Irish pursue history on the national stage.