FULTON, Mo. - In addition to the previously announced additions of Football, Flag Football and Competitive Dance, William Woods University will add Men's Lacrosse for the 2024-25 school year, with 2023 KCAC Coach of the Year Seth Matlock joining the Owls as the team's head coach. The team is seeking affiliate membership in the Heart of America Athletic Conference for the spring 2025 season.
"The addition of men's lacrosse is a strategic step in our five-year growth plan," said Director of Athletics Steve Wilson.
"Lacrosse is a rising sport in both the NAIA and the Heart of America Athletic Conference. I'm excited to continue this historic growth - at The Woods, in the Heart, and in the NAIA."
"The addition of men's lacrosse at William Woods is another important investment in the future of our University, one that typifies the remarkable growth and vitality of our institution," said President Dr. Jeremy Moreland. "Across the board, we have been growing at The Woods – in enrollment, academics and athletics – and adding lacrosse is the latest demonstration of our eagerness to welcome students to our campus."
Men's Lacrosse is in its eighth year as an Invitational championship in the NAIA, with 31 schools currently declared for the sport. Six members of the Heart currently sponsor men's lacrosse, with William Penn (no. 5) and Benedictine (no. 10) both finishing the 2024 regular season ranked in the NAIA Coaches' Rating.
Full Article