Spartans Drop Four Spots in latest USA Lacrosse Magazine Rankings

TAMPA, Fla. – For the first time in 2025, the reigning national champions are no longer perched atop the USA Lacrosse Division II Women's Top 20. The University of Tampa women's lacrosse team fell to No. 4 in this week's rankings following a heartbreaking 15-14 overtime loss to Embry-Riddle—the Spartans' first defeat of the season. The result not only ended Tampa's unbeaten streak but also reshaped the national rankings.

West Chester ascended to the No. 1 spot, while the Sunshine State Conference made a major statement. The SSC now holds five spots in the top seven, including four of the top five, occupying the upper echelon of Division II women's lacrosse. Last week, Tampa delivered a strong performance with a 12-8 win over then No. 2 Florida Southern before falling in overtime to the now No. 3 Embry-Riddle, who secured the program's first-ever victory over a No. 1-ranked team. The Spartans' rollercoaster week reflected the overall strength of the SSC, which continues to assert itself as the most competitive conference in the country. In addition to its five ranked programs, the SSC also saw Florida Tech and Rollins receive consideration in this week's poll. In total, seven of the conference's eight women's lacrosse programs are either ranked or under consideration in USA Lacrosse Magazine's national rankings.

Looking ahead, Tampa has five conference matchups remaining before postseason play begins. This week, the Spartans will host Rollins, then travel to Florida Tech, both of whom they defeated earlier this season by margins of 17 and 8 goals, respectively. Next week brings two crucial matchups against fellow upper-echelon SSC teams, starting with a road test at No. 7 Saint Leo, followed by a marquee home game against No. 2 Lynn, serving as both Senior Day and the annual One Love Game.

For the complete schedule, visit Tampa Spartans.