McLean County Times

Playing its first game of the 2025 season at Tucci Stadium, the Illinois Wesleyan University men's lacrosse team defeated Albion College 13-10 on Saturday, March 1. This victory brings IWU's record to 5-0 for the season, while Albion falls to 2-2.

Senior Sam Weinberg led the scoring for IWU with six points, achieving a career-high five goals and an assist. Sophomore Timothy McHugh contributed five points through orchestrating the offense with five assists. Junior Noah Dretzka added four points from three goals and an assist.

At the faceoff X, junior Nick Schroeder won 13 out of 21 attempts, contributing to a team advantage of 17-of-27. Junior Michael Rocco also performed well in faceoffs with a four-for-six showing.

On defense, senior Sam Skelton tied his career-best with four caused turnovers and set a new personal record with seven ground balls. Freshman Carlo Adams and junior Billy McHugh each secured six ground balls.

Freshman Jaymeson Zackery achieved his first collegiate win as goalkeeper by playing all 60 minutes and making 13 saves. He also recorded five ground balls and two caused turnovers.

The game saw Albion take an early lead after capitalizing on an IWU penalty, but Skelton's defensive play helped IWU regain momentum. Fifth-year Gage Black scored following Skelton's turnover creation, initiating a streak of five consecutive goals for IWU.

Albion managed to reduce their deficit throughout the match, but IWU maintained their lead through strategic plays involving Weinberg and T. McHugh among others. Dretzka closed the third quarter with another goal, leaving IWU ahead by three goals entering the final quarter.

Despite a late effort from Albion, Illinois Wesleyan held their ground defensively to secure their win. The Titans will next host Wabash College at Tucci Stadium on Wednesday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m.