A History of Bryant University Bulldogs Lacrosse

The Bryant Bulldogs men's lacrosse team represents Bryant University in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I lacrosse. This article explores the team's journey, highlighting key moments and achievements.

Early Years and Division I Transition

The team joined NCAA Division I as an independent for the 2009 and 2010 seasons, marking a significant step in the program's evolution.

The Ocean State Cup

Every season since 2010, Bryant has played Brown and Providence for the Ocean State Cup, fostering local rivalries and providing competitive matchups.

Northeast Conference (NEC) Dominance (2011-2022)

Bryant completed a 12-season tenure in the Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2022, establishing themselves as a formidable force within the conference. During this period, the Bulldogs achieved significant success, including multiple NEC Tournament titles and NCAA Tournament appearances.

2013: First NCAA Tournament Appearance

In 2013, Bryant made their first NCAA Tournament appearance. Despite a 12-7 loss to Syracuse, the achievement marked a milestone for the program. As Jim Donaldson noted in the Providence Journal, the team was "overachieving."

2014: Second Tournament Appearance and NCAA Win

A season later, in 2014, Bryant made their second tournament appearance after again winning the NEC Tournament. The Bulldogs demonstrated their growing strength and competitiveness.

2016: NEC Tournament Champions

Bryant won the NEC tournament final over Saint Joseph's 10-6, further solidifying their position as a top team in the conference.

2017: NCAA Tournament Run

Bryant won the NEC tournament final over Hobart 10-4, earning another NCAA Tournament berth. The team then Defeated Siena 9-8 in NCAA play-in and Defeated Syracuse 10-9 in NCAA 1st Round, showcasing their ability to compete at the national level.

2019: Another NEC Title

Bryant won the NEC tournament final over Robert Morris 10-4, adding another conference title to their record.

2021: Controversial Omission

Bryant won NEC tournament final, but did not receive NCAA Tournament invite because of the five team NEC that season, six conference teams are required to get a conference automatic qualifier to the NCAA tournament.

Read also: Bryant & Stratton Costs

Move to the America East Conference (2022)

As of the upcoming 2023 season, the Bulldogs will compete in the America East Conference (AmEast), which Bryant will officially join on July 1, 2022. This move represents a new chapter for the program, with opportunities for growth and increased competition.

Key Personnel

The coach is currently Brad Ross, who previously played at Duke, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the team. The team plays its home games at Beirne Stadium.

Division II Success

Bryant's lacrosse program also has a history of success at the Division II level, including winning the Division II N.E. tournament finals over Le Moyne 5-4.

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