North Michigan News

The Northern Michigan University (NMU) women's lacrosse team started their 2025 season with a decisive victory over the Walsh Cavaliers, winning 19-6. The Wildcats, playing at home in Marquette, Michigan, took control of the game early and maintained their lead throughout.

The match began with NMU scoring just 30 seconds in. Although Walsh equalized two minutes later, NMU quickly regained the advantage and held it for the rest of the game. They limited Walsh to two or fewer goals per quarter and ended on a strong note with a 9-1 run from the second half of the third quarter until the final whistle.

Maddi Bast and Josie Lakosky were key players for NMU, each scoring six goals. Bast's performance marked her highest goal tally in a single game since March 2023. Lakosky matched her career-high from last season. Freshman Hannah Jabas made an impressive debut by scoring three goals and assisting twice, contributing five points overall.

In goal, freshman Zoe Montgomery played the first half, saving three out of six shots. Lauren Esposito took over after halftime and saved six out of nine shots.

Norah Bates and Natalie Thomas excelled defensively, leading all players with three ground balls each. Bates also caused three turnovers while Thomas added one more.

Statistically, NMU dominated Walsh by out-shooting them 48-22 and winning draw controls 20-8. Their strongest quarters were the first and fourth, where they out-shot Walsh 14-3 each time and out-scored them 12-2 combined.

The Wildcats are set to face UW-Stout next Sunday at 4 p.m. in the Superior Dome.