The Illinois Wesleyan University men’s lacrosse team concluded its season on May 2 with a 19-9 loss to Elmhurst University in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Tournament Championship. The Titans finished the year with an overall record of 11-7.
This game marked the end of the Titans’ campaign in NCAA Division III, where they compete as members of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin, according to the official website. The team is based in Bloomington, Illinois, and plays its home games at Tucci Stadium, as reported by the official website.
Sophomore Jeremy Langosch led scoring for Illinois Wesleyan with three goals and four points. Senior Cole Kennedy and junior Timothy McHugh each recorded two assists, while junior Jake Kahoun added two goals. On defense, senior Karsten Nordlie registered four caused turnovers and tied sophomore Nick Donohue for most ground balls on the team with three each. Senior Billy McHugh matched his brother Timothy with two caused turnovers apiece.
At faceoff, senior Michael Rocco went seven-for-eighteen against one of Elmhurst’s top specialists. Sophomore Matt Arnold contributed three wins at faceoff as well. Despite efforts from players like Noah Dretzka and Owen Miller to keep pace early in the match, Elmhurst took control before halftime and maintained their lead through to victory.
The loss also marked the conclusion of several seniors’ careers: Kade Miers, Billy McHugh, Andres Morales-Gomez, Karsten Nordlie, Sam Scott, Mitchell Breza, Kaden Gammelgaard, Noah Dretzka, Cole Kennedy, and Michael Rocco were recognized for their contributions over multiple seasons that included three regular season conference titles and tournament championships along with three NCAA tournament appearances—amassing a record of 54-18 during their tenure.
Looking ahead to next season, returning players will seek to build on this year’s experience competing at a high level within NCAA Division III.
