5/5/25 - UCSD Falls to Air Force in MCLA First Round, But Historic Season Leaves Lasting Legacy

The UC San Diego Tritons saw their remarkable 2025 season come to an end with a 4–17 loss to the Air Force Academy Falcons in the first round of the MCLA National Tournament. In a rain-soaked and hard-fought contest, the Falcons exacted revenge for their regular season defeat, jumping out to a dominant 9–1 lead at halftime and never looking back.

Despite the tough loss, the Tritons finished the year with their heads held high, capping off a program-defining campaign with a 13–3 overall record. UCSD spent several weeks ranked as the #1 team in the nation and earned an impressive 11 all-conference selections — including five First Team honorees.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the program’s seniors: Trevor Redford, Alex Franz, Austin Ortel, Henri Schulz, Santiago Zachman, Chris Franz, Trent Burke, Calvin Hsu, Anand Mysorekar, Alex Bergman, and Freddy Coolidge. Each played a critical role in elevating the program to new heights and, true to their mission, left it better than they found it.

While the Tritons will graduate key contributors, the future remains bright. Rising talent such as Jackson Edwards, Ian Han, Thomas Kenyon, Noah Skinner, Billy Mack, Max McConville, Marshall Nakada, Kian Gulbrandsen, and many others promise to carry the momentum forward.

Expect big things from the Tritons in 2026.

4/27/25 - UCSD Loses to CSUSM in the SLC Championship

The UC San Diego Tritons fell to the Cal State San Marcos Cougars by a score of 14-8 in the SLC Championship game. UCSD kept it close through the first half, trailing just 5-4 at the break, but a rough second half saw the Cougars go on a run that the Tritons could not stop. Despite the loss, the Tritons showed improvement in key areas from their previous matchup against CSUSM, particularly with cleaner clears and a more aggressive style of play. Unfortunately, a few unlucky breaks and missed execution proved costly down the stretch.

Senior attackmen Alex Franz (#16) and Austin Ortel (#22) both turned in strong performances, combining for several goals and assists to keep UCSD in the fight. Junior FOGO Blake Zimmerman (#48) continued his outstanding season, winning numerous key face-offs to give the Tritons extra possessions throughout the game.

Fortunately, the Tritons' season is not over. UCSD earned the No. 6 seed in the upcoming MCLA National Tournament in Austin, Texas, where they will face the No. 11 seed Air Force Academy Falcons in the first round. These two teams previously met in March, with the Tritons coming out on top 12-10. UCSD has plenty to clean up before the rematch, but the team remains confident and excited for a deep postseason run.

4/26/25 - Tritons Advance to SLC Championship

The UC San Diego Tritons secured a dominant 12-3 victory over the Arizona Christian Firestorm at La Playa Stadium, located at the beautiful Santa Barbara City College campus. With clear skies and perfect weather setting the stage, the Tritons jumped out to an early lead and never looked back. UCSD led 9-3 at halftime, fueled by an explosive offense and relentless defensive pressure. In the second half, the Triton defense locked down completely, holding ACU scoreless for the final two quarters.

Junior midfielder Noah Skinner (#19) was unstoppable, scoring multiple goals and dishing out several assists to earn Offensive Player of the Game honors. The Firestorm had no answer for his dynamic play. Freshman goalie Kian Gulbrandsen (#2) anchored the defense with an outstanding performance, allowing only three goals and making several remarkable saves that left the Santa Barbara crowd in awe. His composure on clears and critical stops earned him Defensive Player of the Game.

Senior attackman Alex Franz (#16) found the back of the net multiple times, including a highlight-reel goal that rifled into the top left corner. Sophomore attack Jackson Edwards (#7) contributed effectively on the offensive end, while sophomore midfielder Thomas Kenyon (#1) brought crucial energy, scoring a momentum-shifting goal and creating key turnovers during the ride. On the defensive side, senior defenseman Trevor Redford (#14) commanded the unit with multiple takeaways and strong leadership throughout the game.

With this commanding win, the Tritons advance to the SLC Championship, where they will face their rival, Cal State San Marcos, in a highly anticipated rematch.

4/18/25 - Tritons Fall to CSUSM

In a tough road matchup, the UC San Diego Tritons fell to the Cal State San Marcos Cougars 17-14 in a highly physical and emotionally charged game. Playing in a hostile environment, the Tritons struggled to find their rhythm, losing key battles on the ground and suffering from multiple defensive miscommunications that ultimately cost them the game.

Despite the loss, there were standout performances from senior attackman Alex Franz (#16) and junior midfielder Ian Han (#6), who each scored several clutch goals to keep UCSD within striking distance throughout the game. Their leadership and resilience were bright spots in an otherwise tough outing.

With the regular season now complete, the Tritons finish 12-1 and shift their focus to the postseason. The SLC Playoffs begin this Saturday in Santa Barbara, where UCSD will face off against the Arizona Christian Firestorm in the opening round.

Looking ahead, the Tritons are eager for a potential rematch with CSUSM in the conference championship on Sunday, an opportunity for redemption they’ve been eyeing since the final whistle of this recent loss. There’s plenty for UCSD to clean up, but the team remains confident in their ability to bounce back, regroup, and chase the program’s first-ever conference title.

4/13/25 - UCSD Defeats Biola in a Scrimmage

The UC San Diego Tritons traveled to Biola for an away scrimmage and came away with a convincing 15–7 win over the Eagles. While the result favored UCSD, the true value of this matchup was in the opportunities it provided for the team’s younger and developing players to gain meaningful game experience.

Leading the charge was #50 Junior Attackman Mateo Estrada Vega, who earned the game ball and player of the game honors after netting two impressive goals. Mateo has been putting in the work day in and day out during practice, and it was exciting to see that hard work translate to success on the field.

Adding to the excitement, #99 Junior Attackman Timmy Thinh found the back of the net for the first time in his college career, marking a milestone moment in the scrimmage. The Tritons' offense was firing from all angles, with standout contributions from unexpected sources.

On the defensive end, #44 Senior Goalie Joey Carmona got the starting nod and came up big, making several key saves and anchoring the defense to hold the Eagles' offense in check. #15 Sophomore Defenseman Dom Gonta scored his first-ever collegiate goal, and #8 Senior Defenseman Chris Franz added not one, but two goals—the first tallies of his college career.

#24 Freshman LSM Sebastian Pierce had another strong outing, continuing to show why he’s a key piece of the Tritons’ future. Meanwhile, #70 Sophomore Nidhish Balakrishnan and #27 Junior SSDM Daniel Reyes both logged their first-ever game action, gaining valuable experience and showing great energy on the field.

Rounding out the standout performances was #40 Senior Defenseman Freddy Coolidge, who delivered a lockdown performance—holding his matchup to zero goals and making life miserable for the Biola attack all day long.

This scrimmage wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard—it was a win for team growth, development, and morale. The Tritons continue to build depth and confidence as they push forward in their undefeated season.

4/12/25 - UCSD Takes Down USD on Saturday Night

The UC San Diego Tritons traveled across town and took care of business in a hard-fought 14–8 win over the University of San Diego Toreros. Despite the final scoreline, this one didn’t come easy.

The Tritons came out sluggish, with a slow and sloppy first half that saw USD take advantage of uncharacteristic mistakes. But after regrouping at halftime, UCSD came out with a different level of intensity and urgency—completely flipping the script in the third quarter with a dominant 6–0 run that ultimately put the game out of reach.

This matchup served as a wake-up call for the Tritons, who remain undefeated at 12–0. The team acknowledged that when they bring the right energy—both on the sideline and on the field—they’re capable of being the best team in the country. That mentality will be critical heading into their biggest test of the season next week against bitter rivals Cal State San Marcos.

Junior midfielder #6 Ian Han continued to shine, putting up several key goals and setting up his teammates with a handful of smooth assists. The attack unit of #22 Austin Ortel, #16 Alex Franz, and #7 Jackson Edwards put together another productive outing, keeping the pressure on the Toreros’ defense all afternoon.

Defensively, #4 Billy Mack, a junior defenseman, was a force—earning player of the game honors with multiple takeaways and clears, consistently making momentum-shifting plays. Freshman LSM #24 Sebastian Pierce brought the fire all game long, earning the coveted "Hard Hat Award" for his relentless energy, physicality, and effort between the lines.

With this gritty road win behind them, the Tritons will shift their focus to San Marcos as they prepare for a rivalry clash with major playoff implications.

4/6/25 - Tritons Top NAU

The UCSD Tritons kept their perfect season alive with a gritty 12-8 victory over conference rival Northern Arizona University (NAU), improving to 11-0 and holding firm as the #1 team in the country. UCSD came out firing on all cylinders, storming to a commanding 7-2 lead by halftime thanks to sharp ball movement and aggressive defense. The attack trio of #22 Austin Ortel, #16 Alex Franz, and #7 Jackson Edwards once again delivered a strong performance, creating opportunities and putting pressure on the NAU defense from the start.

But NAU wasn’t going down without a fight. The Lumberjacks caught fire in the second half, cutting into the Tritons’ lead and turning the game into a tense back-and-forth battle. Fortunately, UCSD held their ground and managed to close out the game late, showing resilience and composure in the face of a conference opponent pushing hard for an upset. #6 Ian Han was unstoppable on offense, burying three spectacular goals and earning MVP honors for his performance. His clutch play kept UCSD ahead when the game tightened up in the second half.

In cage, #2 Kian Gulbrandsen made several jaw-dropping saves, coming up big during crucial moments to keep the Tritons in the lead and frustrate the NAU shooters. Defensively, #11 Max McConville and #14 Trevor Redford were brick walls, locking down their matchups and earning Defensive Players of the Game honors. Their hustle and physical play were key in shutting down NAU's late-game surge.

While the Tritons walked away with another win, this matchup served as a wake-up call. The team knows there’s work to be done and lessons to be learned if they want to keep their perfect season alive. Next up, the Tritons face off against local rival University of San Diego on Saturday, April 12, in what promises to be another high-stakes showdown.

4/4/25 - UCSD Beats Conference Foe Arizona Christian

The UCSD Tritons continued their undefeated season in dominant fashion, defeating the Arizona Christian Firestorm 16-6 at home. From the opening faceoff to the final whistle, the Tritons controlled every aspect of the game, extending their perfect record to 10-0 and maintaining their spot as the #1 ranked team in the country.

The attack unit of #22 Austin Ortel, #16 Alex Franz, and #7 Jackson Edwards was electric, combining for a multitude of goals and assists that kept the Firestorm defense scrambling. Their chemistry and sharp execution set the tone early and never let up.

A highlight moment came from #1 Thomas Kenyon, who took a fast break coast to coast and buried a top-shelf rocket to keep momentum firmly on the Tritons’ side. The crowd erupted as the goal energized the bench and crushed any hopes of a Firestorm comeback.

On the defensive end, #2 Kian Gulbrandsen was sensational in net. His acrobatic saves and poise under pressure denied Arizona Christian time and time again, frustrating their offense and preserving UCSD’s commanding lead.

#15 Dom Gonta earned Defensive Player of the Game honors with a lockdown performance, showcasing relentless one-on-one defense and leading several key clears to transition the ball efficiently upfield.

With another statement win in the books, the Tritons look ahead to closing out their season strong as the undisputed top team in the nation

3/30/2025 - UCSD Rolls Past San Jose State, Stays Undefeated at 9-0

The #1 ranked UC San Diego Tritons continued their tear through the season with another dominant showing, taking down the San Jose State Spartans 20-10 in a wire-to-wire victory. The Tritons came out firing and overwhelmed the Spartans early, building a commanding 17-2 lead by halftime.

UCSD once again displayed its depth and offensive firepower, with 12 different players finding the back of the net. The attack trio of Jackson Edwards (#7), Alex Franz (#16), and Austin Ortel (#22) continued to shine, combining for 10 goals and 7 assists. Their balance and chemistry have become a trademark of the Tritons’ offense, and they were nearly unstoppable again in this one.

Sophomore midfielder Thomas Kenyon (#1) followed up his breakout performance against UCSC with another monster game, tallying 2 goals and an assist while dominating between the boxes.

The scoring didn’t stop there—Ian Han (#6), Marshall Nakada (#13), Carlos Barrientos (#21), and Santiago Zachman (#88) each had a goal and an assist, adding to the Tritons’ impressive offensive distribution. Even the defense got in on the action, with Trevor Redford (#14) and Natan Benveniste (#18) both finding the net in transition.

With such a comfortable lead, UCSD was once again able to give valuable minutes to younger and less experienced players, a crucial opportunity for development as the team looks toward the postseason.

While the Tritons were in full control through the first three quarters, the fourth quarter saw a bit of a drop-off in intensity, allowing San Jose State to tack on several garbage time goals. Still, the result was never in doubt.

Now sitting at 9-0 and still holding the #1 spot in the country, the Tritons turn their attention to a crucial stretch of four league games, including key matchups against conference rivals Arizona Christian University and Northern Arizona University. With every game critical to playoff positioning, UCSD will look to carry this momentum into what promises to be a defining stretch of the season.

3/29/2025 - Tritons Cruise to a Victory against UC Santa Cruz

The #1 ranked UC San Diego Tritons continued their undefeated season with a commanding 20-8 victory over the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs on Sunday. The Tritons jumped out to a 7-1 lead in the first quarter and never looked back, controlling the pace and tone of the game from the opening whistle.

UCSD’s offensive firepower was on full display, led by the starting attack line of Austin Ortel (#22), Alex Franz (#16), and Jackson Edwards (#7), who combined for an impressive 11 goals and five assists. The chemistry between the trio proved too much for the Slugs’ defense to handle, as they consistently found space and capitalized on scoring opportunities.

A major highlight came from sophomore Thomas Kenyon (#1), who netted his first career hat trick, notching three goals and energizing the sideline. Midfielder Noah Skinner (#19) also chipped in two goals, contributing to a deep and balanced offensive effort.

With the Tritons pulling ahead early, the coaching staff took advantage of the opportunity to get valuable minutes for some of the team’s less experienced players, giving the bench a chance to gain game-time experience while maintaining the high standard of play.

On the defensive end, the Tritons were anchored by a lockdown unit consisting of Trevor Redford (#14), Billy Mack (#4), and Kian Gulbrandsen (#2). The trio set the tone physically and communicated well throughout the game, keeping the Banana Slugs at bay for most of the afternoon. While Santa Cruz managed a few late goals in garbage time, the outcome was never in doubt.

With this win, UCSD remains undefeated at 8-0 and retains their top spot in the national rankings. The Tritons will be back in action tomorrow with a quick turnaround, facing off against San Jose State in what promises to be another exciting matchup.

3/14/25 - Game vs Air Force

In one of the most anticipated matchups of the season, #2 UC San Diego took down #1 Air Force in a thrilling 12-10 battle on a rainy, foggy night in San Diego. Both teams entered the game undefeated, but it was the Tritons who emerged victorious, proving their resilience and determination against a Falcons squad stacked with former NCAA Division I talent.

The game began with a promising start for UCSD, as junior midfielder Ian Han (#6) struck first to put the Tritons on the board. However, Air Force quickly took control, showcasing their experience and firepower to dominate the rest of the first half. The Falcons went on a six-goal run, suffocating the Tritons on both ends and heading into halftime with a commanding 6-1 lead.

Whatever was said in the UCSD locker room at halftime clearly worked. The Tritons came out firing in the second half, capitalizing on a man-up opportunity as senior attackman Austin Ortel (#22) ignited the comeback with a goal. The momentum continued to shift as senior midfielder Santiago Zachman (#88), senior attackman Alex Franz (#16), and sophomore attackman Jackson Edwards (#7) found the back of the net, bringing the Tritons within striking distance at 8-5 heading into the fourth quarter.

The final frame was a masterpiece for UCSD. Junior face-off specialist Blake Zimmerman (#48) controlled possession, allowing the Tritons to dictate the tempo. Sophomore midfielder Thomas Kenyon (#1) kick-started the rally with a goal, followed by two more from the electric Edwards and one from junior Noah Skinner (#19). Suddenly, UCSD had scored four unanswered goals, swinging the lead in their favor.

Air Force showed why they were the top-ranked team, responding with two clutch goals to knot the game at 9-9 with just five minutes to play. But the Tritons refused to back down. Edwards delivered once again, scoring his fourth goal of the night off a beautiful assist from Skinner to reclaim the lead.

The final minutes belonged to UCSD’s defense. Senior defenseman Trevor Redford (#14) led a lockdown unit that included junior defenseman Billy Mack (#4), sophomore defenseman Dom Gonta, junior long-stick midfielder Max McConville (#11), defensive midfielders Henri Schulz (#9) and Sam Abel (#25), and senior defenders Chris Franz (#8), Calvin Hsu (#23), and Natan Benveniste (#18). Freshman goalie Kian Gulbransen (#2) was nothing short of phenomenal, making multiple clutch saves to preserve the lead.

With just over a minute left, junior midfielder Gael Gonzalez (#3) added an insurance goal to make it 11-9. Moments later, Edwards sealed the game with his fifth tally of the night, assisted by Ortel. Air Force managed to grab one last goal, but it wasn’t enough, as UCSD ran out the clock to secure a historic 12-10 win.

The victory marked a defining moment for the Tritons, who proved that heart, hustle, and resilience could overcome even the most talented opponents. With this win, UCSD is on the verge of earning the program’s first-ever #1 ranking, a testament to the entire team’s contributions and never-say-die attitude.

A battle for the ages, and a night to remember in Triton lacrosse history.

3/10/25 - Game vs Virginia Tech

In a gritty, hard-fought battle, the UC San Diego Tritons defended their home turf with a 9-7 win over the visiting Virginia Tech Hokies. Despite coming off a week of limited practice due to rain, UCSD overcame a slow start and found a way to secure the victory in front of their home crowd.

The Tritons struck first, shaking off some early rust to take a 3-1 lead after the first quarter. However, the Hokies responded in the second, out hustling and outworking UCSD to even the score at 4-4 heading into halftime. Virginia Tech’s physical play and relentless energy kept the Tritons on their heels, forcing UCSD to dig deep in the second half.

The back-and-forth battle continued through the third quarter, with both teams trading blows in a physical and defensive showdown. But it was sophomore attackman Jackson Edwards (#7) who delivered when the Tritons needed it most, netting two consecutive goals to give UCSD a surge of momentum.

Junior midfielder Ian Han (#6) added two goals of his own, while senior attackman Alex Franz (#16) contributed two goals and an assist. Junior midfielder Noah Skinner stepped up in the clutch, scoring the go-ahead goal late in the fourth to put the Tritons ahead for good.

Freshman goalie Kian Gulbransen was the difference-maker, standing tall in the net with an impressive 15-save performance. His efforts earned him the game ball as he anchored a UCSD defense that held strong down the stretch.

While it wasn’t the prettiest win, the Tritons showed grit and resilience in closing out the Hokies. As they say, "a win is a win," and this one serves as an important learning experience for UCSD as they prepare for their biggest test yet, hosting the #1-ranked Air Force Academy this Friday.

3/2/25 - UCSD vs FAU

The UC San Diego Tritons secured a statement victory over No. 6 Florida Atlantic, grinding out a 9-6 win in an intense battle that showcased their dominance on both ends of the field. With this win, the Tritons avenged last season’s MCLA Tournament loss to the Owls and continued their perfect start to the season.

UCSD came out firing, jumping to an early 2-0 lead, but the Owls responded with three unanswered goals to take a 3-2 advantage at the end of the first quarter. However, the Tritons found their rhythm in the second quarter and never looked back, controlling the pace and keeping FAU off balance for the rest of the game.

Everything clicked for UCSD as they locked in offensively and defensively. The Tritons hounded the Owls’ top players, making them a nonfactor and shutting down their offensive threats with relentless pressure.

On the offensive side, senior attack Austin Ortel (#22) put on another dominant performance, leading the charge with 3 goals and 3 assists, earning him MCLA Player of the Week honors for his stellar play in Idaho. Sophomore attack Jackson Edwards (#7) was the playmaker, tallying 1 goal and 3 assists, while senior attack Alex Franz (#16) added 2 goals.

Senior midfielder Santiago Zachman (#88) delivered in crunch time, scoring two goals, including the dagger that sealed the win. Junior midfielder Adam Lapinski (#17), who battled a foot sprain to start the season, continued his strong return by adding another goal in his first full weekend back on the field.

The Triton defense was outstanding once again, completely neutralizing FAU’s offense and forcing tough shots all game long. Junior Billy Mack (#4), junior Max McConville (#11), sophomore Dom Gonta (#15), freshman Sam Abel (#25), senior Calvin Hsu (#23), junior Natan Benveniste (#18), and senior Trevor Redford (#14) all played key roles in the defensive stand, with Redford earning the game ball for his performance.

Freshman goalie Kian Gulbrandsen (#2) continued his incredible season, making 20 saves with a 77% save percentage, earning him MCLA Goalie of the Week honors for his stellar play throughout the Idaho trip.

Now at 5-0, the Tritons are riding high and looking to carry this momentum into a challenging week ahead. They are set to face Virginia Tech before taking on the ultimate test—a showdown against No. 1 Air Force. UCSD has proven they can compete with the best, and they’ll look to keep their undefeated streak alive against some of the toughest competition in the country.

2/28/25 - UCSD vs Utah State

The UC San Diego Tritons showed their resilience and determination in a hard-fought 11-10 comeback victory over No. 13 Utah State, keeping their perfect season alive at 4-0. Despite trailing for the majority of the game, the Tritons erupted for five goals in the fourth quarter, capping off the rally with a game-winning strike from junior midfielder Gael Gonzalez (#3).

Utah State controlled the pace early, leading 3-2 after the first quarter, extending their advantage to 7-5 at halftime, and holding an 8-6 edge heading into the final frame. But UCSD refused to go down quietly. With time winding down, the Tritons’ offense came to life, showcasing their depth and grit to claw their way back into the game.

Freshman midfielder Carlos Barrientos (#21) played a pivotal role in the victory, stepping up at the faceoff X in place of injured FOGO Blake Zimmerman. His dominance in the second half allowed UCSD to control possession and fuel the late-game surge.

Senior attack Austin Ortel (#22) once again led the offense with two goals and three assists, while the Tritons' deep midfield unit put together a standout performance. Ian Han (#6) notched two goals and an assist, Adam Lapinski (#17) buried his first goal of the season, Marshall Nakada (#13) contributed a goal and an assist, and Noah Skinner (#19) added a crucial goal.

With the victory, the Tritons improve to 4-0 on the season and 2-0 in Boise, setting up a marquee showdown against No. 6 Florida Atlantic on Monday. The matchup is a highly anticipated rematch from last year’s MCLA Tournament, and UCSD is eager to get revenge against the FAU Owls while keeping their winning streak alive.

2/27/25 - UCSD at Northwest Nazarene

In one of the most electrifying matchups of the season, the UC San Diego Tritons pulled off a massive road upset, defeating the No. 5-ranked Northwest Nazarene Nighthawks 12-11 in a nail-biting contest. The win marks a milestone for the Tritons, who took down a powerhouse program that will be moving up to NCAA Division II next season.

UCSD came out firing, storming to a 4-2 lead by the end of the first quarter. Senior attackman Austin Ortel (#22) orchestrated the offense early, racking up assists and finding the back of the net himself. However, the Nighthawks clawed their way back, tying the game at 5-5 heading into halftime.

The second half saw back-and-forth action, with both teams trading blows in a tense battle. Senior attack Alex Franz (#16) delivered in key moments, scoring three goals and adding an assist, while sophomore attack Jackson Edwards (#7) chipped in with two goals and an assist. Junior midfielder Ian Han (#6) proved to be the hero, netting two crucial goals—including the game-winner in the final minutes.

The Tritons' defense held strong against a relentless NNU attack, anchored by standout performances from Max McConville (#11), Trevor Redford (#14), Billy Mack (#4), and Henri Schulz (#9). Freshman goalie Kian Gulbrandsen (#2) was the backbone of UCSD’s defense, recording a stellar 16 saves, including two clutch back-to-back stops in the final seconds to seal the victory.

“This win is huge for the program,” said head coach Albert Man. “To come on the road and take down a top-five team—especially one moving up to NCAA D2 next year—says a lot about the heart and determination of this squad. I couldn’t be prouder.”

With the statement victory, UC San Diego continues to build momentum and prove they belong among the nation’s top teams. The Tritons will look to carry this energy into their next matchup as they push toward a postseason berth.

2/22/25 - UCSD Takes Down D1 USC

The UCSD Tritons pulled off the upset over the Division 1 USC Trojans in an early morning showdown, securing a commanding 14-8 victory. From the opening whistle, the Tritons came out firing, fueled by the dominant play of Junior Faceoff Specialist Blake Zimmerman (#48), who set the tone by controlling possession and giving UCSD crucial early offensive opportunities.

The offense was led by sophomore Jackson Edwards (#7) and senior Austin Ortel (#22), who both delivered standout performances. Edwards tallied four goals, while Ortel had an outstanding game with four goals and three assists. Senior Alex Franz (#16) added to the offensive firepower with two goals and an assist, helping the Tritons build and maintain their lead. Contributions from across the roster made the difference, with Thomas Kenyon (#1), Carlos Barrientos (#21), Santiago Zachman (#88), and Ian Han (#6) each finding the back of the net.

On the defensive end, freshman goalie Kian Gulbrandsen (#2) was lights out, earning defensive player of the game honors with an impressive 13 saves and an assist. The Triton defense was relentless, shutting down the Trojan attack and keeping USC from gaining any momentum throughout the game.

This monumental win gives UCSD a huge confidence boost as they prepare for a tough road trip to Nampa, Idaho, where they will face three top-10 teams: Northwest Nazarene, Utah State, and Florida Atlantic. With this victory, the Tritons have established themselves as a team to watch and will look to carry this momentum into a pivotal weekend of competition.

2/15/25 - UCSD Wins Their Season Opener vs LMU

The UC San Diego Tritons dominantly opened their season, securing an 11-6 victory over Loyola Marymount on the road in a heated and physical contest. The Tritons set the tone early, jumping out to a 4-1 lead at the end of the first quarter and extending it to 7-2 by halftime, keeping the Lions on their heels for most of the game.

Sophomore Jackson Edwards (#7) was unstoppable, leading the Tritons with an impressive five-goal performance, making an emphatic statement to start his season. Alex Franz (#16) also had a strong outing, contributing multiple goals while excelling on the ride, forcing key turnovers to keep LMU from settling into their offense.

It was a milestone night for several Tritons as Gael Gonzalez (#3), Ian Han (#6), and Sam Abel (#25) all found the back of the net for their first career collegiate goals in their debut game. Austin Ortel (#22) orchestrated the offense beautifully, dishing out several assists to help fuel the attack.

At the faceoff X, Blake Zimmerman (#48) was a game-changer, winning a majority of the draws to maintain possession and momentum for UCSD. His efforts helped the Tritons control the tempo and keep the Lions chasing for most of the night.

Defensively, Henri Schulz (#9) was a force in the midfield, shutting down transition opportunities and bringing relentless energy to the Triton defense. In the cage, goalie Kian Gulbrandsen (#0) was rock-solid, making crucial saves and commanding the defense to earn Defensive Player of the Game honors alongside Schulz.

The Tritons' season opener was not only a statement win but also a great start to the season, with contributions coming from all over the field. Next up, UC San Diego will travel back to Los Angeles next Saturday for a big showdown against USC, looking to build on this strong start and continue their winning ways.

1/26/25 - Preseason Scrimmage: Tritons vs Aztecs

The UC San Diego Tritons faced off against the San Diego State Aztecs in a preseason scrimmage that ended in a 15–8 loss for the Tritons. While the score didn’t go their way, the matchup served as a valuable early test and a major learning opportunity heading into the season.

SDSU came out strong and showed why they’re considered one of the more talented teams in the region. The Aztecs dominated possessions throughout the scrimmage, especially at the X, where they consistently won faceoffs and controlled the pace of the game. Their possession advantage wore down the Tritons’ defense and limited offensive opportunities.

Despite the result, the UCSD coaching staff and players are walking away with clear takeaways and motivation. The scrimmage highlighted areas that need improvement—especially in the middle of the field and in maintaining energy throughout four quarters.

For the Tritons, this was more than just a preseason scrimmage—it was a chance to test themselves against high-level competition and identify what it will take to succeed when the season officially kicks off. UCSD remains focused and determined to use this experience as fuel for growth, with eyes set on a strong regular season run.

11/16/24 - UCSD Finishes off the Fall with High Hopes

The UCSD Tritons faced off against the SDSU Aztecs 2 in a competitive matchup this weekend, ultimately falling 5-7. Despite the loss, the Tritons showed resilience and heart against one of the most athletic and talented teams in the country. Missing a few key players, UCSD relied on its depth and the strong leadership of its seniors to keep the game close.

The Tritons’ defense played a gritty game, anchored by standout performances from veterans, while the offense showcased the growing chemistry between senior stars and a promising crop of newcomers. The Aztecs’ athleticism and experience gave them the edge in key moments, but the Tritons left it all on the field, proving they can compete with top-tier teams. In their final game of the fall season, the UCSD Tritons battled the SDSU Aztecs 1, falling 1-7 in a tough contest. The Aztecs, one of the best teams in the country, displayed their athletic dominance, but the Tritons showed flashes of promise as they continued to develop as a unit. Once again, UCSD was without some key players, making the uphill battle even steeper.

The lone UCSD goal came off a sharp play orchestrated by one of the team’s rising stars, signaling the potential for growth in the winter season. The Tritons’ defense worked tirelessly against a relentless Aztec attack, with younger players stepping up and learning from their more experienced teammates.

Despite finishing the fall season with two losses, the UCSD Tritons leave the field with valuable lessons and renewed focus. The team boasts a balanced roster of senior leaders who provide guidance and game-changing plays, alongside newcomers eager to make their mark. As they head into the winter season, the Tritons are poised for success, with their experience against elite competition fueling their preparation for what’s to come.

11/11/24 - UCSD Loses a Scrimmage Against SDSU

In a tough outing for the UCSD Tritons, the SDSU Aztecs secured a commanding 8-1 victory. From the opening whistle, SDSU dominated faceoffs, giving them consistent control of possession and allowing them to dictate the pace of the game. The Aztecs maintained their lead throughout, capitalizing on their momentum as the Tritons struggled to find their rhythm.

UCSD lacked the energy and spark needed to counter SDSU’s aggressive play. Despite their struggles, the game served as a valuable learning experience for the Tritons, emphasizing the importance of maintaining energy, resilience, and adaptability on the field.

Gael Gonzalez provided UCSD’s lone goal, a bright spot in an otherwise challenging contest. The Tritons will aim to regroup and apply the lessons learned as they prepare for a preseason tournament on Saturday, determined to come back stronger and more focused.

11/4/24 - UCSD Wins a Close Scrimmage Against the Aztecs

In a nail-biting contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the UCSD Tritons edged out the SDSU Aztecs with a 7-6 victory. This thrilling game showcased UCSD’s best defensive performance of the entire fall league, a testament to their grit, preparation, and teamwork.

The Tritons set the tone early, coming out hot and establishing a lead that they worked tirelessly to maintain throughout the close, back-and-forth battle. The defense shined brightest, neutralizing SDSU's offensive efforts and making crucial stops during key moments, ultimately preserving the win.

The victory was met with high team morale, as the Tritons celebrated not only a hard-fought win but also a game that exemplified their growth and cohesion as a unit. With this momentum, the UCSD squad is determined to carry their success into the rest of the pre-season, building on the strong foundation laid in this intense showdown against their local rivals.

11/2/24 - Successful Alumni Game for the Tritons

The annual UCSD Tritons Lacrosse Alumni Game brought high energy, competitive spirit, and plenty of smiles as the current team squared off against their predecessors. In a display of both skill and camaraderie, the current UCSD squad emerged victorious with a decisive 17-6 win over the alumni.

The game was marked by a fantastic atmosphere, with former teammates reconnecting, reminiscing, and sharing their love for the game. While the alumni showcased their experience and game knowledge, the current Tritons leaned heavily on their superior conditioning and pace to secure the win.

Standout performances from the current team included Austin Ortel, Alex Franz, Blake Zimmerman, Santiago Zachman, Trevor Redford, and Kian Gulbrandsen, each contributing with impressive plays that kept the momentum firmly in their favor. The alumni had their share of memorable moments too, highlighted by strong efforts from Finn Reid, David Mastro, and Ryan de Leon, who brought great skill and determination to the field.

Overall, it was a spirited contest that celebrated the Triton lacrosse legacy, leaving everyone involved with smiles, pride, and anticipation for the next alumni showdown.

10/28/24 - Halloween Themed Scrimmage vs. SDSU

In a spirited Halloween scrimmage, the UCSD Tritons faced off against the SDSU Aztecs, falling 9-4 in a game filled with creative costumes and valuable lessons. The field was lively with players dressed as Power Rangers, wizards, and a variety of animal onesies, making it a memorable event for players and spectators alike.

SDSU, showcasing their skill and cohesion, maintained a steady lead throughout the game, giving UCSD a challenging matchup. Despite the score, UCSD walked away with significant takeaways. Going against such a talented team highlighted areas for improvement and growth, with UCSD players eager to clean up and refine their gameplay in preparation for future matchups. It was a fun yet insightful scrimmage for both teams!

10/21/24 - UCSD Defeats USD in Pre-season Scrimmage

In an impressive preseason display, the UC San Diego Tritons secured a commanding 7-2 victory over their local rivals, the University of San Diego Toreros. The scrimmage showcased the Tritons' balanced attack and rock-solid defense, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.

From the opening whistle, UCSD's offense was firing on all cylinders, with veteran players leading the charge. Austin Ortel, Marshall Nakada, and Noah Skinner all found the back of the net with stunning goals that highlighted their experience and skill. However, it wasn't just the veterans making noise in this contest. Newcomers Carlos Barrientos, Ian Han, and Kian Gulbrandsen played pivotal roles, stepping up when the team needed it most.

Defensively, the Tritons were nearly impenetrable, led by Trevor Redford, Billy Mack, and Max Mcconville, limiting the Toreros to just two goals while shutting down multiple offensive opportunities. The team’s ability to transition from defense to attack was seamless, with defenders turning stops into fast-break chances throughout the game.

Overall, UCSD’s strong performance from both seasoned veterans and new contributors bodes well for the upcoming season, as the Tritons look poised to build on their preseason momentum. With a final score of 7-2, the Tritons demonstrated that they’re a team to watch.

10/14/24 - UCSD vs. SDSU

The Tritons came out firing against the Aztecs with a 4-1 lead at halftime with scores coming from Austin Ortel, Alex Franz, and Gael Gonzalez. The momentum quickly shifted in favor of SDSU after the half as the Aztecs scored four unanswered goals to go up 5-4. The Tritons responded quickly with Noah Skinner tying the game and a clutch save from Kian Gulbrandsen to keep the game tied. With only five seconds left, Alex Franz scored a clutch game-winning goal finishing an exciting game with a win.

10/7/24 - Men’s Lax scrimmage against SDLC

The UCSD Tritons faced off against the San Diego Lacrosse Club (SDLC) in a tightly contested game under a thick fog that blanketed the field. In the end, SDLC managed to secure a 7-4 victory, but the Tritons showed promising potential, especially considering they only had one practice leading up to this matchup.

Despite the final score, the game remained competitive throughout. Both teams traded goals early on, with UCSD's defense stepping up to keep SDLC’s skilled offense at bay. However, SDLC pulled away in the final minutes with a few clutch plays that tipped the balance in their favor.

The UCSD Tritons looked sharp, thanks largely to a strong incoming freshman class that immediately made an impact. These newcomers showed their skill and adaptability, proving that they’ll be valuable additions to the squad moving forward. The entire team displayed resilience, energy, and cohesion—traits that, with more practice, should set the Tritons up for success in the season ahead. While the fog added an extra challenge to visibility, both teams battled hard, showcasing intense play and solid strategy. UCSD’s performance was encouraging, hinting at a promising season filled with potential.