MLAX: Lasers Ranked 2nd in Pre-Season Poll

MLAX: Lasers Ranked 2nd in Pre-Season Poll
Posted: Feb 17, 2025

Newton, MA- The Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) has released its 2025 Pre-Season Poll, with the Lasell University men's lacrosse team ranked second in the South Division. The Lasers are aiming to bounce back to the title game and claim their first GNAC title since 2021, following a semifinal exit to the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) last season.

The Lasers will rely heavily on their experienced core, led by graduate student Francis Pino, a key piece of the Lasers' defense. Pino earned GNAC 1st-Team and NEILA All-Star honors in 2024, leading the team with 31 caused turnovers and 61 ground balls, ranking 6th overall in the GNAC.

Senior goalkeeper Michael Catalano, a 2023 All-Conference 3rd-Team and 2024 All-Tournament Team selection, will also return for the 2025 season. Catalano logged 945 minutes in the net in 2024, recording 198 saves and posting a 54% save percentage, providing a steady presence between the pipes for Lasell.

Face-off specialist Matthew Carbone, a 2023 All-Conference 2nd-Team selection, is expected to be a crucial contributor once again in 2025. Carbone dominated the face-off circle in 2024, tallying 159 ground balls and winning 227 face-offs, giving the Lasers an edge in possession.

Ryan Stone, senior captain and four-year starter, will look to reach the 100-point milestone after finishing his junior season with 14 goals and 12 assists. Stone currently sits at 99 career points and will be a key offensive weapon for Lasell. Finnegan McCormack will also be a key contributor on the attack, having posted 21 goals and 8 assists in 2024.

Rising sophomores Colin Lebaron and Jason Martin are expected to build on strong freshmen campaigns and become consistent forces for the Lasers' offense. Both players earned spots on the GNAC All-Rookie Team in 2024, with Lebaron tallying 27 goals and 6 assists and Martin recording 13 goals and 32 assists in his first season.

With a strong mix of returning talent and young potential, the Lasers are poised to make another run at the GNAC championship in 2025.