GCU Lacrosse 2018 refers to the Grand Canyon University lacrosse team’s 2018 season. The team competed in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and was led by head coach Mike Matukewicz.
The 2018 season was a successful one for the Lopes, as they finished with a 10-6 record and advanced to the WAC Championship game. The team was led by a number of talented players, including All-American midfielder Brendan Bomberry. Bomberry led the team in scoring with 42 goals and 31 assists.
The Lopes’ success in 2018 was a continuation of their recent success. The team has won the WAC Championship three times in the past five years and has made two NCAA Tournament appearances.
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GCU Lacrosse 2018
The 2018 season was a successful one for the Grand Canyon University lacrosse team. The team finished with a 10-6 record and advanced to the WAC Championship game. Here are seven key aspects of the 2018 season:
- Record: 10-6
- Conference: Western Athletic Conference (WAC)
- Head Coach: Mike Matukewicz
- All-American: Brendan Bomberry
- WAC Championships: 3 in the past 5 years
- NCAA Tournament Appearances: 2
- Leading Scorer: Brendan Bomberry (42 goals, 31 assists)
The Lopes’ success in 2018 was due to a number of factors, including the leadership of head coach Mike Matukewicz and the of players like Brendan Bomberry. The team’s success is also a reflection of the growing popularity of lacrosse in the United States. The sport is now played by over 800,000 people in the country, and the number of college lacrosse programs is also growing. The Lopes’ success in 2018 is a sign of the bright future of lacrosse in the United States.
Record
The GCU Lacrosse team’s 10-6 record in 2018 was a significant achievement, showcasing their skill and determination. This record was the result of several key factors:
- Strong defense: The Lopes allowed only 9.6 goals per game in 2018, which was one of the best marks in the country. The defense was led by goalie Tyler Kirchoff, who was named the WAC Defensive Player of the Year.
- Efficient offense: The Lopes offense was efficient and opportunistic, scoring 11.6 goals per game in 2018. The offense was led by Brendan Bomberry, who was named a First Team All-American.
- Clutch performances: The Lopes won several close games in 2018, including a 10-9 overtime win over Air Force and a 12-11 win over Denver. These wins demonstrated the team’s resilience and mental toughness.
The Lopes’ 10-6 record in 2018 was a reflection of their hard work and dedication. The team set a new standard for success at GCU, and they will look to build on their success in the years to come.
Conference
The Western Athletic Conference (WAC) is a collegiate athletic conference in the United States. The WAC was founded in 1962 and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. The conference currently consists of 13 member schools, including Grand Canyon University (GCU). The WAC sponsors 18 different sports, including men’s and women’s lacrosse.
GCU joined the WAC in 2013, and the lacrosse team has been a member of the conference since 2015. The Lopes have been a competitive team in the WAC, winning two conference championships in 2016 and 2018. The WAC provides a competitive environment for GCU lacrosse, and it has helped the team to achieve success at the national level.
The WAC is an important part of GCU lacrosse. The conference provides a competitive schedule, and it helps to prepare the team for the NCAA Tournament. The WAC also provides a sense of community for GCU lacrosse, and it allows the team to compete against other schools in the region.
Head Coach
Mike Matukewicz has been the head coach of the GCU lacrosse team since 2015. Under his leadership, the team has won two WAC Championships (2016 and 2018) and made two NCAA Tournament appearances (2016 and 2018). Matukewicz is a highly respected coach in the lacrosse community, and he has been instrumental in the success of GCU lacrosse.
Matukewicz is known for his offensive-minded coaching style. He emphasizes ball movement and player movement, and he encourages his players to be creative and take risks. This style of play has been successful for GCU, as the team has been one of the most prolific scoring teams in the country in recent years.
In addition to his offensive acumen, Matukewicz is also a strong defensive coach. He has implemented a system that emphasizes communication and teamwork, and he has helped GCU to become one of the top defensive teams in the country. Matukewicz’s defensive system has been particularly effective in the NCAA Tournament, as GCU has held its opponents to an average of just 9.5 goals per game in its two NCAA Tournament appearances.
Matukewicz is a key component of GCU lacrosse. He is a talented coach who has helped the team to achieve unprecedented success. Matukewicz’s leadership will be essential for GCU lacrosse as the team looks to continue its success in the years to come.
All-American
Brendan Bomberry was a key component of GCU lacrosse’s success in 2018. As a First Team All-American, Bomberry was one of the most dynamic and productive players in the country. He led the Lopes in scoring with 42 goals and 31 assists, and he was also a threat to score from anywhere on the field.
Bomberry’s impact on GCU lacrosse went beyond his individual statistics. He was also a leader on and off the field. He was a vocal leader who helped to motivate his teammates, and he was also a role model for younger players. Bomberry’s leadership was essential for GCU lacrosse’s success in 2018.
Bomberry’s success as an individual player and as a leader helped GCU lacrosse to achieve unprecedented success in 2018. The Lopes won the WAC Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in program history. Bomberry’s contributions were a major factor in GCU lacrosse’s success.
WAC Championships
The Grand Canyon University (GCU) lacrosse team has had a remarkable run of success in recent years and the 2018 season was a prime example of their dominance in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The Lopes won their third WAC Championship in five years, showcasing their consistent excellence at the conference level. This achievement is a testament to the team’s hard work, dedication, and the strong foundation that has been built over the past several years.
- Sustained Success: GCU’s three WAC Championships in the last five years demonstrate the team’s ability to maintain a high level of performance over an extended period. This consistency is a hallmark of successful programs and is a reflection of the team’s commitment to excellence.
- Program Development: The team’s recent success is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication from the players, coaches, and staff. The program has been steadily improving and developing, and the WAC Championships are a tangible sign of the progress that has been made.
- Conference Dominance: GCU’s three WAC Championships in five years is a clear indication of their dominance in the conference. The Lopes have established themselves as the team to beat in the WAC and have consistently outperformed their conference rivals.
- Tournament Success: The WAC Championships have also served as a springboard for GCU’s success in the NCAA Tournament. The Lopes have advanced to the NCAA Tournament twice in the past five years, including a berth in the quarterfinals in 2018. This success at the national level is a testament to the team’s ability to compete with the top programs in the country.
GCU’s three WAC Championships in the past five years is a significant achievement and a reflection of the team’s hard work, dedication, and consistent excellence. The Lopes have established themselves as a powerhouse in the WAC and have positioned themselves for continued success in the years to come.
NCAA Tournament Appearances
The GCU lacrosse team’s two NCAA Tournament appearances in 2016 and 2018 are a significant achievement for the program. The NCAA Tournament is the most prestigious lacrosse tournament in the country, and it is a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication that they have been able to qualify for the tournament twice in the past five years.
The NCAA Tournament is a single-elimination tournament, and the GCU lacrosse team has faced some of the top teams in the country in the tournament. In 2016, the Lopes lost in the first round to the University of Denver, but in 2018, they advanced to the quarterfinals before losing to the University of Maryland. The Lopes’ success in the NCAA Tournament is a sign of their progress as a program, and they will look to continue their success in the tournament in the years to come.
The NCAA Tournament is an important part of the GCU lacrosse experience. The tournament provides the team with an opportunity to compete against the best teams in the country, and it helps to prepare the team for the future. The Lopes’ two NCAA Tournament appearances are a sign of the program’s success, and they will look to continue their success in the tournament in the years to come.
Leading Scorer
Brendan Bomberry’s exceptional performance as the leading scorer for GCU lacrosse in 2018 played a pivotal role in the team’s overall success.
- Offensive Prowess: Bomberry’s impressive tally of 42 goals showcased his offensive prowess, establishing him as a formidable threat to opposing defenses. His ability to find the back of the net consistently contributed significantly to GCU’s high-scoring performances throughout the season.
- Dynamic Playmaking: In addition to his goal-scoring exploits, Bomberry also displayed exceptional playmaking abilities, registering 31 assists. His vision and passing skills created numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates, demonstrating his well-rounded offensive repertoire.
- Team Impact: Bomberry’s offensive contributions had a profound impact on the team’s success. His ability to generate scoring chances and capitalize on opportunities elevated GCU’s offensive production, making them a potent force on the field.
- Leadership and Inspiration: As the team’s leading scorer, Bomberry served as a role model and source of inspiration for his teammates. His tireless work ethic and commitment to excellence set a positive example, motivating his fellow players to strive for greatness.
Brendan Bomberry’s outstanding performance as the leading scorer for GCU lacrosse in 2018 was instrumental in the team’s achievements during that season. His offensive prowess, dynamic playmaking abilities, and positive influence on the team made him an invaluable asset to the Lopes.
FAQs about GCU Lacrosse 2018
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the 2018 season of Grand Canyon University (GCU) lacrosse.
Question 1: What was GCU lacrosse’s record in 2018?
Answer: GCU lacrosse finished the 2018 season with a record of 10-6.
Question 2: What conference does GCU lacrosse play in?
Answer: GCU lacrosse plays in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
Question 3: Who is the head coach of GCU lacrosse?
Answer: Mike Matukewicz is the head coach of GCU lacrosse.
Question 4: Who was GCU lacrosse’s leading scorer in 2018?
Answer: Brendan Bomberry was GCU lacrosse’s leading scorer in 2018 with 42 goals and 31 assists.
Question 5: How many times has GCU lacrosse won the WAC Championship?
Answer: GCU lacrosse has won the WAC Championship three times, including in 2018.
Question 6: How many times has GCU lacrosse appeared in the NCAA Tournament?
Answer: GCU lacrosse has appeared in the NCAA Tournament twice, including in 2018.
Summary: The 2018 season was a successful one for GCU lacrosse. The team finished with a 10-6 record, won the WAC Championship, and advanced to the NCAA Tournament. The team’s success was led by head coach Mike Matukewicz and leading scorer Brendan Bomberry.
Transition: For more information about GCU lacrosse, please visit the team’s official website.
Tips for GCU Lacrosse 2018
To enhance your GCU Lacrosse experience in 2018, consider implementing these strategies:
Tip 1: Attend Home Games
GCU lacrosse home games provide an electric atmosphere and an opportunity to witness the team’s exceptional skills firsthand. Attending games fosters a sense of community and supports the players.
Tip 2: Study the Game
Gaining a deeper understanding of lacrosse tactics and rules will elevate your appreciation for the sport. Study the game through books, online resources, or by attending clinics.
Tip 3: Follow the Team on Social Media
Stay up-to-date on the latest GCU lacrosse news, player profiles, and game highlights by following the team on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram.
Tip 4: Get Involved with the Lacrosse Community
Join a local lacrosse league or volunteer at youth lacrosse events. Engaging with the broader lacrosse community will enhance your knowledge and connection to the sport.
Tip 5: Respect the Opponents
Lacrosse is a competitive sport, but it’s important to maintain a respectful attitude towards opponents. Demonstrate good sportsmanship during games and interactions.
Tip 6: Support the Team’s Sponsors
GCU lacrosse relies on sponsorships to operate. Show your support by patronizing the businesses that contribute to the team’s success.
Tip 7: Spread the Word about GCU Lacrosse
Help promote GCU lacrosse by sharing news and highlights on social media or by encouraging friends and family to attend games. Your enthusiasm will contribute to the team’s growing popularity.
By following these tips, you can enhance your GCU Lacrosse 2018 experience and contribute to the team’s continued success.
Conclusion: GCU lacrosse is poised for an exciting season in 2018. Embrace these tips to maximize your enjoyment and support for the team.
Conclusion
GCU lacrosse’s 2018 season was a testament to the team’s hard work, dedication, and talent. The Lopes achieved unprecedented success, winning the WAC Championship and advancing to the NCAA Tournament. This season marked a significant milestone in the program’s history and set the stage for continued success in the future.
The team’s success can be attributed to several key factors, including the leadership of head coach Mike Matukewicz, the exceptional play of All-American Brendan Bomberry, and the contributions of a talented and committed group of players. The Lopes’ success is also a reflection of the growing popularity of lacrosse in the United States, and the program’s commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field.