Will Towson Lacrosse Finally Live Up to Expectations This Spring

Will Towson Lacrosse Finally Live Up to Expectations This Spring

Towson Men’s Lacrosse Set to Kick Off 2023 Season This Month

You ever feel that palpable excitement in the air as a new lacrosse season gets set to begin? The energy on campus is electric, students buzzing about the upcoming games, lax bros tossing balls on the quad between classes. Well, that time is nearly here for the Towson Tigers men’s lacrosse team. After a longer off-season than they would have liked, the Tigers are chomping at the bit to get back on the field and start their 2023 campaign. And expectations are high in Towson for this squad to make some noise this spring.

See, last season left a sour taste for the Tigers. They stumbled to a disappointing 5-8 record, failing to qualify for the CAA tournament. It was a letdown for a program with such a rich history and passionate fanbase. But there were some extenuating circumstances. The Tigers dealt with multiple season-ending injuries to key players, so depth became an issue. And they endured shooting droughts at times, resulting in some frustrating one-goal losses.

But the page has turned to a new year. And with a good mix of returners and new additions, Towson fans are hoping their Tigers have put last season behind them. So what will be the keys to success for Towson in 2023?

Beefed Up Offense Looking to Find Finishing Touch

Well, for starters, scoring more goals would be a good idea. The Tigers averaged only 10 goals per game last season, which won’t cut it against elite competition. But reinforcements have arrived. Graduate student transfer Grant Maloof posted 61 points at DIII powerhouse RIT last year, and will bring a much-needed scoring punch. His slick stick-handling and finishing ability around the cage will prevent teams from overplaying Towson’s other offensive threats.

And speaking of offensive threats, junior attackman Stratton Sherman is back after an injury cut short his sophomore campaign. Sherman has a dynamite shot from way downtown, stretching defenses with his ability to score from 15+ yards out. If he and Maloof can develop chemistry, opposing goalies will feel under siege this season.

In the midfield, senior Noah Parker exhibited flashes of brilliance last year, using his speed and athleticism to create for others. Look for him to take the next step and become more of a goal-scoring threat himself as a senior leader. And familiar face Nick Griffin returns after 2 years in the transfer portal, giving the Tigers some added experience in the middle of the field.

New Faces Bolster Defense

While the offense expects to take a step forward, the biggest improvements may come on the defensive end. The Tigers surrendered over 13 goals per game last season, a number that must drop closer to 10 to compete in the CAA.

Enter freshman stud Bobby Wilson, ranked as a top 10 incoming defenseman by Inside Lacrosse. His athletic 6’2″ frame is already college-ready, and he’ll be asked to shut down opponents’ top attackmen right away. Wilson’s addition allows the coaching staff to slot some other capable defenders like junior Tyler Connolly into more comfortable roles.

In net, graduate transfer goalie Justin Patterson arrives with an impressive track record at DII Limestone College. if he can replicate the 60% save percentage he posted there, it would give the Tiger defense a massive boost. Depth was an issue at goalie last year, but Patterson gives Towson a battle-tested starter between the pipes.

Cautious Optimism Surrounds Hungry Tigers

The table seems set for a Towson resurgence this spring. With extra time to stew over last year’s frustrations, the Tiger veterans should be playing with an edge. The infusion of transfers and talented underclassmen have raised the team’s overall talent level. And 3rd year coach Ryan Moran has had ample opportunity to imprint his culture and style of play.

But the CAA gauntlet awaits, chock full of ranked squads like UVA, Drexel and Delaware. Towson must prove they can steadily execute against elite competition. And improved depth will be tested by the compact conference schedule. Players will need to avoid the injury bug.

So expectations are tempered, but hope springs eternal as opening day nears. The Towson faithful have visions of a Cinderella postseason run dancing in their heads. But the Tigers must walk before they can run, taking care of business in the regular season and punching that long-awaited ticket to the CAA tourney. Then, who knows what this hungry group can accomplish? We’ll soon find out, as the whistles blow and plastic starts flying on lacrosse fields from Towson to Tribeca. It’s time to lace ’em up.

Tigers Look to Bounce Back After Disappointing 2022 Campaign

As we just discussed, Towson is hungry to rebound from last year’s letdown. But looking back, their 2022 struggles may have been a bit predictable. The Tigers had to replace multiple longtime starters like leading scorer Shane Simpson. And the transition to new head coach Ryan Moran’s system was bound to come with growing pains.

But early season success had raised hopes entering conference play. Towson opened with a solid 4-2 record, including an exhilarating comeback overtime win against Loyola Maryland. Their trademark tenacious defense was on full display, anchoring victories.

However, the grueling CAA schedule soon exposed Towson’s flaws. Scoring droughts plagued the Tigers in tight losses to Drexel and Hofstra. And a rash of injuries led to a lack of depth, especially on defense. Towson dropped 5 of 6 games during one critical stretch. And any hopes of contending in the CAA evaporated.

A lone bright spot was an epic 13-12 senior day upset of top 10 Villanova. But the Tigers ended the season on a sour note, falling 14-8 to Delaware in the season finale. A single conference win left Towson searching for answers in the offseason.

Extensive Roster Overhaul Seeks Different Results

Clearly, changes needed to be made if Towson hoped to get back into the CAA and NCAA tourney mix. So the coaching staff was very active in the transfer portal, looking to address roster deficiencies.

The offensive additions of Maloof and Griffin provide much-needed firepower and experience. And Patterson brings stability in net after Towson cycled through 3 different starting goalies last spring. These transfers should make an immediate impact.

Coach Moran also hit the recruiting trail hard, reeling in stars like Bobby Wilson to infuse athleticism and depth. Wilson was a huge recruiting coup, choosing Towson over the likes of Duke and Virginia.

And finally, strength and conditioning became a major point of emphasis after last year’s injury issues. The Tigers adopted new training regimens focused on durability and injury prevention. Improved overall fitness aims to make the team more resilient when the grind of conference play hits.

Cautious Optimism Surrounds Rejuvenated Tigers

On paper, Towson’s combination of returners and new additions looks potent. And some lacrosse pundits are already pegging them as a potential sleeper in the CAA. But there are always uncertainties with such an overhauled roster.

How long will it take for the influx of transfers and freshmen to mesh with the existing personnel? Can the offense develop consistency after scuffling last year? Will the defense improve cohesion and communication with so many new faces? These are all valid questions.

Coach Moran’s ability to mold this roster into a cohesive unit will be pivotal. And keeping egos in check while establishing defined roles will be key. Leadership from veterans like Parker and Sherman must set the tone.

But there is too much talent now for Towson not to take a significant step forward. They boast the depth and athleticism to compete with anyone in the nation’s deepest lacrosse conference. And expectations are growing with each passing day as the season approaches. Stay patient Towson fans – your time to roar may soon be coming.
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Key Returners Expected to Spark Improved Offense

We’ve talked about the new additions expected to bring firepower to Towson’s offense. But the Tigers also boast some talented returners hungry to atone for last year’s struggles. The combination of new and old faces aims to keep opposing defenses off balance this spring.

We already touched on Sherman and Parker’s importance, but let’s dive deeper. Sherman has the potential to be one of the nation’s top snipers. Though undersized at just 5’8″, he uses elite quickness and change of direction to find seams for his cannon of a shot. He scored 4+ goals in 3 of his first 4 games last year before a torn ACL ended his season. Fully healthy again, Sherman is poised for a breakout junior campaign.

Parker is the classic do-it-all midfielder, able to initiate offense or provide lockdown defense. He scored 17 goals last year, while scooping 27 ground balls at the other end. Look for his production to jump even higher as a senior captain. Parker’s two-way versatility and passion for the game set the tone for the Tigers.

Sophomore Bobby O’Neill only had 11 points last season but flashed tantalizing potential. Blessed with elite athleticism at 6’3″, O’Neill is a matchup nightmare when attacking from X. His highlight reel dodges and dunks demand respect from any defense. With a year of experience under his belt, O’Neill seems ready to convert those flashes into more consistent production.

New Faces Bring Excitement and Uncertainty

While Towson knows what they have in veterans like Sherman and Parker, how the new pieces fit remains a question mark. Transfer Grant Maloof arrives with staggering DIII stats, but can he replicate that output against CAA giants? Faceoff stud Nolan McNelis dominated at the DII level, but will his timing and technique hold up against shifty DI FOGOs?

These transfers will be tossed right into the fire, needing to perform from day one. There will undoubtedly be growing pains, with Maloof and McNelis still adapting to the speed and physicality of DI lacrosse. Fans will need to stay patient as the new additions acclimate.

But their pedigrees indicate the potential is there. And Coach Moran’s track record of developing players and integrating transfers portends well for this assimilating his new personnel. Their learning curve will be crucial determining factors in Towson’s success this spring.

Sum of Parts Hopefully Greater Than Whole

On paper, Towson’s reconstituted offense looks stacked with weapons. But lacrosse games aren’t played on paper. Meshing together transfers, freshmen, and returners into a cohesive unit takes time and tribulation. Egos and roles must be balanced, chemistry nurtured.

But the raw talent is undoubtedly there. Sherman provides the shooter, O’Neill the dodger, Parker the do-it-all midfielder, and Maloof the savvy facilitator. Not to mention capable complementary pieces like Griffin ready to step up. Keeping all those horses fed and happy will be Coach Moran’s challenge.

If the Tigers can put it all together, their offense could go from middling to menacing overnight. But continued struggles converting opportunities into goals would quickly derail this season. For Towson fans, it may come down to a simple pleading mantra: Just. Score. More.
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Transfer Portal Additions Bolster Defense and Midfield

While improvement relies heavily on returners like Sherman offensively, several new additions hope to strengthen Towson at the other end of the field. Transfers and freshmen will look to bolster the defense and midfield, providing some stingy complements to the Tigers’ scoring punch.

We’ve already highlighted beastly freshman Bobby Wilson, expected to be an instant difference-maker at close defense. But he’s not the only impact transfer portal pickup. Carl Rivers arrives after two stellar seasons anchoring the swarming defense at DIII Washington College. His veteran savvy and fundamentals will pair nicely with Wilson’s athleticism.

In the midfield, senior Austin Henningsen comes over from NCAA runner-up Maryland, bringing a championship pedigree. Though not a star with the Terps, Henningsen saw regular playing time for one of the nation’s top programs. He provides yet another experienced two-way midfield presence.

And at the faceoff X, grad transfer Nolan McNelis looks to give Towson a major boost after their FOGO play languished last season. McNelis has the technique and tenacity to battle the CAA’s shifty fogos. Giving the Tigers more possessions could make a world of difference.

Young Tigers Bring Energy

While transfers strengthen both ends of the field, some talented underclassmen hope to work into key roles for the Tigers. Sophomore middie Tyler Canto saw limited action last year but brings scintillating speed and athleticism. He could become a matchup problem if his skills develop to match his physical gifts.

Freshman defender Liam Yorke arrives as a highly touted local recruit, choosing Towson over schools like Penn State and Rutgers. His aggressiveness and nose for the ball stand out on film. Yorke will push for time right away in Towson’s deepening defense.

The injection of youth provides needed depth, energy and competition. Their continued maturation will be critical if injuries again strike the Tigers. Coach Moran needs his talented freshmen and sophomores ready to step up when called upon.

Sum Greater Than Parts?

On paper, Towson’s reconstructed defense and midfield looks stout, mixing veterans and promising youngsters. Transfers like Rivers and Henningsen bring poise and experience, while freshmen like Wilson and Yorke provide exuberance and talent.

But the challenges of fostering chemistry and communication remain, especially on the defensive end. Goalie Patterson and defenders like Connolly must mesh with new teammates mid-season. Building cohesion on the fly won’t be easy.

How quickly the pieces gel and complement each other will determine whether Towson’s defense ascends from solid to suffocating. Mastering the fundamentals like slides, rebounds, and clears must be priorities. Do that, and the Tigers’ bark may finally match their bite.
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Challenging Non-Conference Slate to Prepare for CAA Play

Before the meat of Towson’s CAA schedule begins, they have a challenging non-conference slate to tune up against top competition. Early tilts with Loyola, UVA, and Johns Hopkins will test the Tigers against some of the sport’s elite.

They open the season with a rematch at Loyola, who’ll be itching for payback after last year’s stinging upset. The Greyhounds return one of the nation’s top defenses, providing a stiff early test for Towson’s new-look offense. But getting off to a hot start with another win could set the tone for the Tigers’ season.

In late February, the Tigers travel to defending NCAA champ Virginia looking to score a signature win. However, taking down the Cavaliers on their home turf is a tall task. Though UVA lost some key contributors, they are still stacked at both ends of the field. Towson keeping this clash competitive could build confidence entering conference play.

And the Tigers close their non-conference schedule with a perceived mismatch vs storied Johns Hopkins. The Blue Jays boast Top 10 preseason rankings and title aspirations of their own. Though likely underdogs, Towson should benefit from facing one of the sport’s enduring powers right before CAA play heats up.

CAA Waters Run Deep

While non-conference games provide a valuable early gauge, Towson’s CAA slate will make or break their season. And once again, the CAA shapes up as an absolute gauntlet.

Perennial powers like UVA, Duke, and Denver bolster a conference loaded with ranked teams. Towson must navigate a compact schedule where there are truly no easy outs. Matchups with top 10 foes await them on a weekly basis.

Last year exposed Towson’s lack of depth when injuries hit. Maintaining health against the CAA meatgrinder will be critical. And bringing effort and execution each night in conference play is a must to avoid lopsided defeats.

To CAA Glory or Bust?

Towson’s ability to compete consistently when it matters most in CAA play will determine whether their preseason optimism was justified. Running the conference gauntlet separates contenders from pretenders.

A strong showing against their stacked non-conference foes would provide momentum entering league play. But the Tigers must avoid the mid-season swoons that derailed them last year. Developing mental and physical durability will be telling.

On paper, this is arguably Towson’s most talented squad in years. Now they must prove it between the lines when CAA cannons blaze. Surviving the league buzzsaw could propel the Tigers onward and upward come May.
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Home Opener vs Cross-Town Rival Set for Exciting Matchup

After opening with some challenging road tests, Towson lacrosse will finally play in front of their raucous home fans at Johnny Unitas Stadium. And awaiting them will be a fired-up cross-town foe eager to crash the Tigers’ home opener party.

The Loyola Greyhounds make the short trek to Towson looking to avenge last year’s upset loss on their home turf. With both teams expected to contend this spring, this inner-city rivalry clash carries extra juice.

Loyola boasts one of the nation’s stingiest defenses, led by shutdown close defender Grant Mitchell. He’ll likely draw the tough assignment of blanketing Towson’s top scoring threat Stratton Sherman. That intriguing chess match could determine the game’s tempo and flow.

With thunderous cheers raining down, Towson must tune out the distractions and stick to their gameplan. Maintaining offensive patience and poise against the Greyhounds’ swarming D will be critical. High percentage shots and extra ball movement can neutralize Loyola’s aggressive slides.

In transition, the Tigers must avoid sloppy turnovers and difficult shots that fuel Loyola’s lethal fast break. Smart offensive decisions, hustling back on defense, and winning the ground ball battles will short-circuit the Greyhound running game.

Statement Game for New Era

Beyond the personal pride at stake in this rivalry, a win for Towson would announce their arrival as a force this season. Taking down a top 10 team on their home turf would provide validation that this new-look Tiger team is for real.

It would also send a message that Coach Moran has molded his overhauled roster into a cohesive, resilient unit. Out-grinding the physical Greyhounds would showcase the Tigers’ toughness and chemistry.

On the flip side, a loss here doesn’t doom Towson’s season by any means. But an 0-2 start would deflate some of that preseason enthusiasm surrounding the program. It would raise concerns about their consistency and mental fortitude.

First Chance to Roar

As the game wears on and crowd’s buzz builds, expect chants of “Let’s Go Tigers” to reach deafening levels. Playing before their passionate home fans for the first time this year, emotions will run high for the Tigers.

Harnessing that energy without letting it boil over will be a balancing act. But the Tigers are ready to feed off the atmosphere and put on a show. Expect some highlight reel goals that bring the stadium to their feet.

With local bragging rights up for grabs, this home opener has major implications. Towson is looking to set the tone for a season they hope long remembered.
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Road Trip to Defending Champ UVA Early Test for Tigers

A major benchmark on Towson’s schedule comes when they hit the road to take on the reigning national champion Virginia Cavaliers. Having just won their 7th NCAA title, UVA remains the class of college lacrosse until proven otherwise.

The Cavaliers return loaded despite some key losses, including the sublime passing of attackman Matt Moore. But shifty midfielder Dox Aitken is back after leading UVA in goals last year. He spearheads a typically potent Hoos offense.

Defensively, shutdown close defender Cade Rich anchors a suffocating unit that allowed under 7 goals per game last season. They make living hell for opponents trying to operate in the midfield.

So for Towson to have a chance, they must value each offensive possession and avoid careless turnovers. The Tigers will need A+ ball movement and decision making to find seams in UVA’s swarming defense.

David vs Goliath?

On paper, this seems a major mismatch. Virginia has been a perennial powerhouse, while Towson remains an unproven commodity with a new-look roster.

The Tigers will likely enter as heavy underdogs, with UVA expected to roll. But funny things can happen when teams take the field. If Towson brings passion and poise, an upset may not be inconceivable.

Just keeping the game competitive into the 4th quarter could provide a moral victory of sorts for Towson. Hanging tough against the NCAA’s gold standard would signify the Tigers are heading in the right direction under Coach Moran.

Passing a Gut Check

Beyond the scoreboard, this game presents a mental test for Towson. Traveling to a raucous venue to face the sport’s preeminent power is no easy task, especially for younger players.

The Tigers must control their emotions and stick to the gameplan, no matter the score. If they get starstruck or rattled, this could get ugly. Maintaining their composure and confidence will be telling.

Win or lose, the Tigers will benefit from gaining experience in a pressure cooker environment. How they handle the stage could fortify them for rigors ahead. Consider it a valuable early season gut check.
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Positions Battles Still Up for Grabs During Preseason

While Towson’s depth looks greatly improved from last year, several starting spots remain open competitions heading into the season. Position battles during preseason practices will determine who seizes key roles.

At attack, transfer Grant Maloof seems likely to snag one starting spot after his eye-popping production at the DIII level. But who emerges alongside him is up for grabs. Sherman is a prime candidate, but sophomore Brendan Grimes showed potential as a freshman and could challenge.

In the midfield, stalwarts Parker and O’Neill have two spots locked down. But the third starting role seems wide open. Sophomore Canto and senior Henningsen may be the front runners there.

Faceoff is another intriguing battle. Transfer McNelis was brought in to take the reins, but sophomore Caleb Grimes thrived at times last year. Winning this spot in camp could come down to who shows more consistency.

Competition Breeds Excellence

Unlike last year when multiple spots lacked credible depth, Towson finally has quality competition at each position. Making the starters earn their roles in practice should provide a performance boost.

Guys pushing for time will go all out trying to get on the field. And with more capable bodies, the starters feel pressure to perform knowing someone is ready to take their spot.

This camp competition raises the Tigers’ performance floor. Having to work for their jobs prevents starters from becoming complacent. And it ensures contributing players are honing their skills against the first unit rather than just reserves.

Roles Must Emerge

While position battles are great for motivation, defined roles will need to crystallize by opening day. The Tigers can’t be shuffling guys in and out unsure of who’s in their top group.

As camp progresses, Coach Moran must make tough decisions to settle on starters and rotational players. This allows sufficient reps to build team chemistry and continuity.

Cutting down the lineup provides clarity to competitors about where they stand. And it lets the Tigers build cohesion heading into live action. Distinct roles must emerge to find the right formula.
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Fresh Faces Competing for Key Roles on Offense and Defense

While veterans hold down many starting spots, Towson will rely on several freshmen and newcomers to round out the lineup and provide depth. Their ability to make an instant impact could determine how far the Tigers go.

We’ve already highlighted beastly freshman defender Bobby Wilson, who seems destined for a starting role. His tenacious on-ball defense and nose for groundballs will strengthen Towson’s backline.

On offense, all eyes are on transfer Grant Maloof to provide a scoring punch right away. His adjustment to the speed and physicality of DI lax will be critical. The Tigers need Maloof to draw pressure away from top threats like Sherman.

In the midfield, newcomers like Henningsen, Yorke and Rivers must adapt quickly to the two-way demands and blistering pace. Their positional versatility gives Coach Moran options, but they’ll need to earn trust.

Learning Curves Ahead

Integrating new players is always a challenge, especially with defenders who must build chemistry. There will undoubtedly be growing pains and teachable moments early on.

How quickly Towson’s fresh faces acquire the system, terminology, and fundamentals will impact their individual and collective development. Patience will be required as they adjust.

But talent ultimately wins out if athletes maximize their gifts. The physical tools are there for Towson’s newcomers to thrive. How rapidly their lacrosse IQ and skills evolve could determine if the Tigers become contenders.

Baptism by Fire

There is no easing into the fire for Towson’s talented freshmen and transfers. The Tigers’ rigorous schedule necessitates that they produce immediately.

Facing polished veterans game after game, the newbies will take their lumps but hopefully expedite their growth. Their emergence gives Towson the lineup flexibility that elite teams enjoy.

If the Tigers’ youth movement progresses ahead of schedule, it could take them from CAA sleeper to powerhouse. That upside will be tested right out of the gates this spring.
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Towson Counts on Veteran Leadership to Reverse Fortunes

While young guns infuse talent, Towson’s veterans must provide the steadying hand to guide the Tigers’ fortunes. Their leadership on and off the field will set the tone.

As a 4th-year starter, attackman Stratton Sherman now assumes the mantle as the face of the program. His fiery play and vocal presence motivate teammates. Sherman leads by example, playing with an edge from the first whistle.

In the midfield, senior Noah Parker offers a stabilizing influence. His balanced two-way play and versatility make him invaluable at both ends. Parker is a coach on the field, directing the offense from his quarterback-like role.

On defense, veterans like Connolly, Rivers and keeper Patterson must foster communication and chemistry amongst newcomers. Their experience helps reinforce the system and fundamentals.

Growth Mindset Required

For Towson to take the next step, veterans must embrace leadership roles and accountability. Setting the tone in practice habits, film study and overall dedication are vital.

That means constructively correcting mistakes, not allowing poor technique, and demanding focus. Upperclassmen know what it takes after last year’s struggles. Conveying that urgency to young players is critical.

The seniors must also be open to coaching themselves. Continued development and leading by example are imperative. No resting on laurels from past seasons.

Heart and Soul

Championship rosters need a strong backbone of culture carriers. The seniors provide that championship mettle forged through prior disappointment.

Their presence ensures optimal preparation, practice intensity, and gameday focus. Freshmen learn to approach the game like veterans. That standard elevates the whole squad.

Past Towson greats laid the foundation for success. Now it’s time for Sherman, Parker and others to continue building the legacy. Their hard-nosed leadership could lift the Tigers back to glory.
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Stringent CAA Schedule Looms Large Again This Spring

While early games provide a test, Towson’s season will ultimately come down to surviving the CAA gauntlet. Once again, their conference schedule is loaded with landmines.

Perennial powers like UVA, Duke, Denver, and Drexel set an extremely high bar. These ranked opponents all have national title aspirations, and Towson must face them in back-to-back weeks.

Even unranked foes like Hofstra and Fairfield are talented and battle-tested. The depth of quality across the CAA means there are no breaks on the schedule.

Simply qualifying for the CAA tournament requires navigating this buzzsaw slate while avoiding key injuries. Staying competitive in league play demands Towson’s very best week after week.

Mental Toughness Tested

Beyond physical preparation, sustaining focus against top-flight competition each game tests mental fortitude. Towson must avoid emotional ebbs and flows.

If the Tigers get caught looking ahead or let one bad loss spiral, the unforgiving CAA schedule will bury them. Pushing reset after each performance is vital – good or bad.

This team’s resilience will be revealed when adversity strikes. Responding positively to challenges defines championship caliber squads. Staying even-keeled is imperative.

Time to Prove Themselves

Based on last year’s struggles, Towson likely enters the season picked middle-of-the-pack in CAA preseason polls. But the Tigers are out to prove doubters wrong.

This stringent conference schedule provides that opportunity. Taking down top opponents would quickly put Towson on the national radar.

If the Tigers plan on being contenders, they must first beat other contenders. Their path to glory runs directly through the CAA’s best.
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Towson Searching for Consistency After Up and Down 2022

One of Towson’s biggest focuses entering 2023 is finding week-to-week consistency. Last year, promising starts faded with untimely losing skids.

The Tigers want to avoid emotional peaks and valleys this season. Sustaining high effort and execution for 60 minutes each time out is the goal, regardless of opponent.

Towson must also limit lapses within games. Last year saw too many quarters with scoring droughts and sloppy turnovers. Playing consistently focused lacrosse at both ends is critical.

Killer Instinct Required

When opportunities arise this season, Towson needs a ruthless mentality to step on opponents’ throats. Settling for moral victories rather than executing for 60 minutes won’t cut it.

Against top foes, the Tigers must match their talent and preparation with a relentless will to win. Political victories mean nothing in the standings.

This team’s fight and resiliency will be tested repeatedly. Responding positively to adversity and seizing chances to deliver knockout blows defines contenders.

Living in the Moment

While season-long consistency is the larger goal, Towson’s focus must be pinned on excelling in the present moment.

They can’t get caught playing down to lesser foes or get overwhelmed against elite opponents. Max out each possession and quarter without riding the emotional rollercoaster.

Stringing together great individual moments breeds sustained excellence. If the Tigers lock in each play, consistency and wins will follow.
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Tigers Capable of Competing with CAA’s Elite This Season

While the CAA gauntlet awaits, this Towson team may be built to handle it. Their combination of veterans and talented additions looks primed to compete with conference heavyweights.

In year’s past, the Tigers’ lack of depth got exposed in CAA play. But increased roster talent and versatility provides insurance at every position this spring.

Coach Moran now has multiple options to mix and match while keeping legs fresh. And competition breeds excellence during practice, sharpening Towson’s edge.

With playmakers like Sherman, Parker and Wilson now surrounded by capable complementary pieces, Towson boasts next-level roster balance. This is arguably their most complete team in several seasons.

Living Up to Potential

But potential is just that until it gets maximized. And Towson has struggled to play consistently up to their capabilities. Putting it all together this spring is imperative.

If veterans guide the talented underclassmen and newcomers mesh quickly, this team should reach a new level. Their baseline finally looks like top competition.

The table seems set for Towson to make noise in the CAA. Now they must seize the opportunity and execute when lights shine brightest.

Statement Season?

With the 50th anniversary of Towson lacrosse approaching in 2025, this would be an ideal time for the program to reassert itself nationally.

Grabbing CAA headlines and earning a playoff berth would provide that validation. And give the Tigers momentum building towards the historic milestone.

But such lofty goals require excelling in the present. If Towson keeps growing each day, special achievements may follow. This could be the dawn of an exciting new era we reflect on fondly down the road.
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Playoff Berth Would Mark Major Step Forward for Program

While the bar is set high internally, returning to the postseason would signal Towson is headed in the right direction. The Tigers have not qualified for the CAA tournament since 2018.

Given last year’s struggles, projection systems do not forecast Towson earning one of the CAA’s four playoff spots in 2023. But projections mean little between the lines.

If the Tigers can parlay their overflowing potential into consistent performance, crashing the CAA tourney is possible. Doing so would provide invaluable experience and momentum.

Hunger Breeds Motivation

Towson’s veterans suffered through back-to-back playoff-less seasons, something once unthinkable for the program. That stinging disappointment drives them entering 2023.

The seniors and upperclassmen are determined to return the Tigers to national relevance during their final seasons. That motivation trickles down to newcomers.

With the pain of recent struggles still fresh, Towson plays with an edge. There is palpable urgency in each practice rep and game.

Beware the Underdog

Should the Tigers break through into the CAA tournament after a multi-year hiatus, they would likely enter as underdogs.

But there is power in being overlooked, as the 2021 Retrievers proved in their stunning conference title run. Counting Towson out would only add fuel to their fire.

With house money status, the Tigers could play free and loose. The mentality of a hungry underdog is not to be underestimated.
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Expectations High as Towson Seeks Return to National Prominence

With an energized fanbase and infusion of talent, there is a palpable buzz surrounding Towson lacrosse this preseason. After years in the wilderness, the Tigers seem poised for a resurgence.

But potential must be backed up by execution. Competing for CAA titles and NCAA Tournament trips needs to again become the standard at Towson.

Reaching those heights requires maximizing each day’s opportunities. Slow steady growth culminates in sustained excellence down the road.

Restore the Roar

Recapturing the program’s championship luster remains the driving long-term goal. Towson’s proud tradition deserves upholding.

The Tigers have qualified for 10 NCAA Tournaments over the years, including a National Title Game appearance. Returning to that upper echelon is the benchmark.

With alumni appetite whetted by renewed optimism this spring, the time is now for Towson to re-establish itself nationally.

Eyes on the Prize

But seasonal outcomes cannot be the current focus for the Tigers. Dwelling on possibilities before excelling in the present is counterproductive.

Towson knows the work required daily, individually and collectively, to become champions. Keeping vision narrowed to the task at hand is imperative.