Courtesy of Newberry College Athletics
NEWBERRY — Nick Cotter and his Newberry College Wolves men’s lacrosse team heads into the 2025 season with their usual high expectations.The men’s lacrosse team begins the 2025 campaign ranked #4 in the South Atlantic Conference preseason poll. They also open the season ranked #14 in the country in the United State Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association preseason poll.
“Our goal is to compete for a conference championship and secure an NCAA Tournament bid. We aim to rank in the top 10 for both goals scored and goals against average while maintaining a 95% clearing rate.”
Cotter, the only head coach in program history, is no stranger to success, having led the Wolves to a combined mark of 40-21 including 24-14 in SAC play the last four seasons.
Last season the Wolves advanced to the SAC Postseason Tournament semifinals for a second consecutive season, posted a school record 12 victories and defeated #6 ranked Indianapolis with their four losses coming to schools ranked in the top-10 in the country.
“We are most excited about the blend of experienced leaders and talented newcomers, as well as the potential of our new systems to elevate team performance,” said Cotter. “This combination gives us confidence in our ability to achieve success this season.”
The Wolves will be tested by a challenging non-conference schedule as well as playing in the toughest Division 2 conference in the country, the South Atlantic Conference.
“The SAC race presents several tough matchups, and our schedule features highly competitive opponents,” said Cotter. “Staying focused and adaptable will be key to overcoming these challenges.”
The Wolves must replace some key pieces this season, but Cotter is confident in his offense.
“Our offensive unit will feature many new faces in 2025, along with new systems,” said Cotter. “Freshman Liam Vollans and sophomore Ace Nichols (a Division I transfer from Lindenwood) have stood out and will lead this group with their dynamic play.”
A mixture of talented transfers and returning players look to lead the midfield.
“Senior Shane Halliwell, graduate student Jonny Maclean and transfer Ayden Snow (Detroit Mercy) will lead our midfield,” said Cotter. “Additional key contributors include Division I transfers Andrew Marks and Kai Talley and junior college All American Sam Barrett.”
Cotter is also high on his midfield depth.
“Sophomores Logan Yost, Jack Bucknell, Cooper Gay, and Will Fitzsimmons have shown significant growth and will play pivotal roles. Freshman Trey Weinstein and Scott Willams have also shown they are ready to make an impact.”
A group of experienced players will lead the Wolves’ defense in 2025.
“Our defense will be anchored by captain Jack Travasso, a highly skilled, versatile player poised to compete for Defensive Player of the Year and a potential first-round NLL draft pick,” said Cotter. “Supporting him are defenders Brian Lake, Hudson Chivers, Kaleb Maylon, and Will Wozniak, all of whom are ready to strengthen the defensive unit. Tristan Nicholason, Nathan Pouliot, Connor Dodd and Trey Goins will lead the short stick defensive midfield position.”
The goaltending position is a battle between three returning veterans seeking their first extended playing time at Newberry – Nolan Downey, Tyler LeBlanc and Ethan Wiech.
Senior Captain Colby Rogers will be controlling the faceoff for the Wolves this season.
“To achieve our goals, we need consistency in execution, disciplined play, and a strong team culture,” said Cotter. “Maintaining high performance in key areas such as scoring efficiency, defensive stops, and clearing percentage will be crucial.”
Newberry hosts #13 Lewis (Ill.) at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8th and #10 Indianapolis Sunday, Feb. 9th at 1:00 p.m. with both games at Setzler Field.