Defending SSC Champions Tampa Set to Face Florida Tech in Season Opener

MELBOURNE, Fla. - The University of Tampa men's lacrosse team kicks off its 2025 campaign in Melbourne against Florida Tech.

The Matchup: No. 2 University of Tampa (0-0, 0-0 SSC) vs. Florida Tech 0-0, 0-0 SSC)

Date/Time: Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

Location: Rick Stottler Field. 3310 Country Club Road, Melbourne, FL 32901

Series History: The Spartans have won 11 straight matchups against the Panthers, holding a 19-1 all-time record in the series.

About the Spartans: Coming off their 2024 Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Championship run, the Spartans enter 2025 ranked No. 2 nationally in NCAA Division II, according to the USILA. Additionally, Tampa was voted the preseason favorite in the SSC Coaches' Poll.

Following the departure of key veteran captains—including Matthew Beddow, Charlie Bolesh, Jackson Day, Owen Miller, and J.P. Robinson - Tampa named seniors, Aidan Cassara and A.J. Pascarella as team captains for 2025. The Spartans also made notable offseason acquisitions, including former First Team All-Ivy League goalkeeper Connor Theriault from Brown University.

About the Panthers: Florida Tech finished the 2024 season as the third-ranked team in the SSC, posting a 6-9 overall record while finishing 4-3 in conference play. The Panthers aim to open their 2025 campaign with what would be just their second victory over the Spartans in program history.