Fresh off a Liberty League championship, the William Smith Herons will host the opening weekend of the NCAA Division III Women’s Lacrosse Championship after a 13-8 win over the Union Garnet Chargers on Sunday at Urick Stadium. William Smith improved to 17-2 with the victory, securing the league’s automatic bid and positioning itself for a deep postseason run.
The Herons earned a first-round bye and will play in Sunday’s second round at Boswell Field, facing the winner of Saturday’s matchup between Williams and Grove City. Both games are scheduled for 1 p.m., with William Smith taking the field Sunday afternoon.
William Smith enters the NCAA Tournament on a 10th consecutive appearance and 26th overall, continuing a run of sustained success at the national level. The Herons have compiled a 33-25 record in previous tournament games and advanced to the third round last season.
This year’s squad has been among the nation’s most complete teams, ranking first in clearing percentage and second in turnovers per game. William Smith also sits among the top 10 nationally in winning percentage and draw control percentage, while maintaining a strong defensive presence.
Williams arrives with a 9-7 record and an at-large bid, while Grove City enters at 16-3 as an automatic qualifier. The winner of their first-round game will earn the opportunity to challenge the Herons on their home field.
William Smith will host its NCAA second-round game on Sunday, May 10, at Boswell Field, with opening draw set for 1 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].