After a pandemic season for Robert Morris where they played as independents, the men’s lacrosse team will look to advance to NCAA Tournament for the first time as a member of the ASUN Conference.

The Colonials will have a new head coach at the helm. Coach Craig McDonald is taking control of the Colonials this season with his first head coaching job in his career.

“The timing [of being hired] was a little bit more cramped coming in mid-fall,” McDonald said. “Luckily, we have been able to adjust and I’m [fortunate] for the staff that I have on hand.”

There will be a lot of open competition for starting roles this season. With the departure of Ryan Smith and others, Coach McDonald has a lot to keep his eyes on as we approach their upcoming scrimmage against Seton Hill.

GAMES TO WATCH

Feb. 4 @ Duke – 5:00 p.m.

This game has my eyes early on in the season for many reasons. First, Duke is undeniably one of the country’s better programs and I can not wait to see what the Colonials will do with a formidable opponent as their first matchup.

The Colonials came close to beating the Blue Devils last season, losing a close matchup by a score of 16-12. The Colonials will have revenge on their minds.

Apr. 2 @ Detroit Mercy – 11:00 a.m.

This matchup will be the first ASUN matchup for the Colonials this season. The Colonials have an exceptional track record against Detroit Mercy and I believe that however this game plays out is how conference play will go for the Colonials.

Apr. 16 @ Utah – 3:00 p.m.

This will be the first time the Colonials will see former head coach Andrew McMinn in an opposing role. I feel that the Colonials are going to play this game with a lot of passion and will look to defeat their former head coach.

The Colonials won their first matchup against the Utes and will keep their perfect track afloat against Utah.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Eli Doyle, Senior Attackman

Doyle has played behind Ryan Smith over the past two seasons. With Smith gone, my dark horse breakout candidate this season will be Eli Doyle. Doyle will have the opportunity to play a lot this season.

Alex Funk, Graduate Midfielder

Funk will be a solid veteran presence this season for the Colonials. Funk saw the field a lot last season, picking up 5 points (2 goals, 3 assists). Funk knows this system like the back of his hand and we will see his role expand a little more this season.

Jake Boudreau, Graduate Midfielder

Boudreau will be the main to watch for the Colonials offense this season. Boudreau has had a masterful career here at Robert Morris and will continue his excellence in the field.

Boudreau is coming off of a great season in which he put up 28 points (14 goals, 14 assists). Look for Boudreau to be around the net a little more with Ryan Smith no longer being a factor.

RECORD PREDICTION: 8-5, winning the ASUN tournament to clinch an NCAA tournament berth.