UAlbany lacrosse coach demands focus against Sacred Heart in NCAA tournament

UAlbany men’s lacrosse team will get to play one more game at home this season after winning the America East championship.

The Great Danes earned the automatic qualifier for the NCAA tournament, and are now set to play Sacred Heart in the opening round game at Casey Stadium.

“I don’t think anybody’s really only happy with an America East Championship,” said Jake Piseno, a graduate long-stick midfielder. “We want to have that trip down to South Bend, and we want to spend more days together.”

This will be the first ever meeting between UAlbany and Sacred Heart. This is the Pioneers’ first ever trip to the NCAA tournament, after going undefeated in the MAAC and winning the conference title.

“It’s a good team we’re playing. They have 13 wins,” said Scott Marr, UAlbany head coach. “They’re very excited to be here as well.”

Marr gathered his team during Tuesday’s practice, not pleased with the way some of the drills were being executed. After practice, he said he believes his stern message got through.

“These guys haven’t been in this position before, and so it’s my job to make sure that they stay focused and again, respect their opponent and be prepared for who we’re playing,” Marr said.

The Great Danes will be making their 11th appearance in the big dance, and their first since 2018. UAlbany picked up its 10 America east title Saturday after defeating Vermont.

“It’s about being 1-0 tomorrow, and I think that kind of everyone got that message,” Piseno said.

The winner will take on number 1 overall seed and defending national champions Notre Dame in the first round in South Bend. Game time set for 7 p.m. Wednesday at Casey Stadium.