Dallas Christian:
Notre Dame’s lacrosse team has made history this year by clinching their second consecutive national championship. This remarkable achievement occurs after a season marked by outstanding performances, performers, and resilience, contributing to a near-perfect record, only losing one game. The University of Notre Dame showcased their dominance throughout the season, finishing with an impressive record of 16-1. Notre Dame’s only loss came early in the season, perpetuating their drive for perfection for the remainder of the season.
The team’s success was a testament to their collective effort, but it was the exceptional performances of several players that truly shone. Pat Kavanagh, the attackman, was the offensive powerhouse for the Fighting Irish, consistently delivering in crucial moments and leading the team with 31 goals and 43 assists. His brother, Chris Kavanagh, also made a significant impact with 37 goals and 39 assists. Liam Entenmann, the goalkeeper, was a key figure in many of Notre Dame’s victories, making 179 saves with a 55.8% save percentage, serving as a reliable last line of defense.
During the season, they had their share of challenges. Early injuries to key players tested the team’s depth and resilience. However, the Fighting Irish showed remarkable perseverance and adaptability, integrating younger players and maintaining high-performance levels. This was a testament to their strong team culture and coaching, proving that they were more than capable of overcoming any obstacle that came their way.
The championship game against Maryland was a highly anticipated clash between two lacrosse powerhouses. While many thought Notre Dame would see the Duke Blue Devils again in the finals, they were upset by Maryland. The atmosphere was electric as both teams took to the field, eager to claim the coveted title. Maryland came out the gate strong, scoring a goal in minutes; at this point, viewers saw that this would be a dirty and gritty game. However, Notre Dame started playing with a different fuel, powered by Chris Kavanagh, who scored five outstanding goals, and his brother Pat Kavanagh provided six assists. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams showcasing their offensive and defensive prowess. However, Notre Dame’s defense, backed by Entenmann’s spectacular saves, stifled Maryland’s attacks throughout the game. Chris and Pat Kavanagh continued to find the back of the net, extending Notre Dame’s lead.
The final whistle blew with the score at 15-5, sealing Notre Dame’s victory and their second consecutive national championship. The players celebrated on the field, and their hard work and dedication paid off in the best possible way. Notre Dame’s lacrosse team has cemented its legacy with a back-to-back national championship. Their season was a masterclass in teamwork, resilience, and excellence. Led by standout players like Pat Kavanagh, Chris Kavanagh, and Liam Entenmann, the Fighting Irish overcame adversity and delivered a near-perfect season. The championship game against Maryland culminated their efforts, a thrilling contest showcasing their skill and determination. As the celebrations continue, Notre Dame lacrosse fans can look forward to more exciting seasons. Moreover, as Pat said, “Not bad for the 37th-best player in the country ranked by Inside Lacrosse at the beginning of the year.”
The Dutch Report 