Beverly, MA -- The Endicott College men's lacrosse team has received their highest ranking ever (eighth) in New England by the New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (NEILA). Endicott was ranked 10th in New England in the previous weeks poll. In addition to the regional ranking, two playes received Commonwealth Coast Conference recognition. Ryan Walsh and Josh Gilbert merited CCC Honors for their impressive play on the lacrosse field.
Endicott plays seven of the top 15 schools in New England and five teams that are ranked as the top 20 in the country. Endicott is the only CCC team in the New England top 10 poll.
"We feel that it is extremely important to play one of the best schedules in the country," said head coach Sean Quirk. "It will only make us better."
Endicott senior, Ryan Walsh (Weymouth, MA), earned Commonwealth Coast Co-Player of the Week Honors as announced by the conference on Monday.
The Gulls' starting goalie has helped the team to a 4-1 start by recording a .663 save percentage. He also recorded an assist in the season opener against Keene State. He stopped 20 of 24 shots in Endicott's 7-4 win over Roger Williams. "Ryan is without question one of the most athletic goalies in Division III," said Head Coach Sean Quirk. "His ability to take over a game is terrific."
Endicott's student athlete, Josh Gilbert (Simsbury, CT), received Rookie of the Week Honors by the CCC for his outstanding performances on the lacrosse field.
The rookie attack racked up nine goals in four matches for the Gulls. He was a model of consistency, scoring three in the season-opener versus Keene State College, then two in each of his next three matches. Gilbert averages 3.25 shots and 2.25 goals a game, and recorded a .692 shooting percentage.
"Josh is a great finisher who is generating a lot of offense for us," said head coach Sean Quirk. "He is a terrific crease man who finishes when he gets open."
Endicott currently holds a 4-1 overall record, 1-0 in the CCC. The team travels to face Bowdoin College on Monday March 28th.
