McLean County Times

History will repeat itself as the Illinois Wesleyan University men's lacrosse team is set to face Aurora University in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year. The match will take place in Bloomington, Illinois, on Wednesday, May 8, at 2 p.m. The winner will move forward to play against Tufts University in Schenectady, New York, on Saturday, May 11.

The Titans have a season record of 13-3 after their recent victory over Elmhurst University in an overtime match during the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Tournament Championship. Senior Gage Black scored the decisive goal leading to a 12-11 win. Sophomore Noah Dretzka contributed five points while Black added four. Michael Campagna was recognized as the CCIW Defensive Player of the Year and led with six ground balls and four caused turnovers alongside Sam Skelton. Colin Tervo achieved his 13th win with 18 saves.

Freshman Timothy McHugh ranks nationally for assists per game while IWU's team stands out in scoring offense. Their opponent, Aurora University, holds a record of 14-5 and recently won the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference title by defeating Concordia University Wisconsin.

Aurora is familiar with Tucci Stadium, having played there earlier this season when IWU won 24-15. This upcoming match marks their sixth NCAA appearance for IWU and eighth for Aurora. Historically, Illinois Wesleyan leads with an 8-4 series advantage over Aurora.

Admission fees are set at $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12 and students with ID. The game can be followed via live stats or streamed online through NCAA platforms.

The victor will proceed to face Tufts on May 11 in New York as part of the regional weekend hosted by Union.

For updates on IWU men's lacrosse activities, follow their social media channels.