Spartans Welcome Undefeated Westminster to Naimoli

TAMPA, Fla. – The University of Tampa men's lacrosse team will take on Westminster out of Utah at Naimoli Stadium.

The Matchup: No. 4 University of Tampa (5-1, 0-0 SSC) Westminster (3-0, 1-0 RMAC)

Date/Time: Monday, March 11, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

Location: Naimoli Family Athletic and Intramural Complex. 1120 West North A Street, Tampa, FL 33606

Series History: Tampa holds a sizeable 4-0 record over Westminster. The last time these two programs faced off, the Spartans came out victorious in overtime.

About the Spartans: Tampa is coming into the matchup with momentum after a come-from-behind win over No. 6 Wingate. Senior, Canyon Birch scored six goals including the overtime winner to defeat Wingate at The Crown Classic, and is currently tied for the lead for goals and goals per game in the Sunshine State Conference. The last time the Spartans and Griffins faced off was a year ago at Naimoli Stadium where Birch tallied an overtime winner. Sophomore, Luca Mercaldo totaled 11 saves in the Spartans last game and currently ranks among the top in the SSC in goals against average and save percentage. Tampa will look to shut down Westminster's high-scoring offense and remain undefeated in the all-time series.

About the Griffins: The Griffins head into the game with an undefeated record. Westminster currently sits at 3-0 and has one conference win to its name. The Griffins are coming off an 18-16 win over Florida Tech who the Spartans are very familiar with and have already faced this year. Westminster will present a tough task for Tampa's defense as the Griffins average 19.3 goals per game and are led by Sean Gragnola, Merritt McMahon, and Joseph Celetano who have combined for 33 goals thus far.