Yale lost to Virginia 13-9 in the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse National Championship in front of 31,528 fans at Lincoln Financial Field Monday.
The Bulldogs, who were trying to repeat as national champions, were held without a goal for more than 16 minutes in the first half. Head Coach Andy Shay is extremely proud of Yale’s effort.
“You’re going to make me cry on TV. They’re just the greatest kids that you could ask for. They do everything that you ask of them and more. If my son could grow up to be like these guys, it would be good,” Shay said.
Virginia captured its sixth national championship in program history and first since 2011.
“Hats off to Virginia,” said Yale senior Joe Sessa. “They beat us straight up but I’d rather have the loss in the national championship in this locker room than in another one with a win.”
Yale’s senior class is the winningest senior class in program history.
“Obviously today is tough but I think the seniors did a good job leaving the program in a better spot than we found it, said Yale senior captain John Daniggelis.
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Despite graduating a talented group of seniors, the Bulldogs will have some key players returning next season including sophomore goaltender Jack Starr, freshman attacker Matt Brandau and junior attacker Matt Gaudet.
