The Flagler College Saints continue to strengthen their reputation as a dominant force in NCAA Division II athletics, and few programs reflect that momentum more clearly than the recent success of the men’s and women’s lacrosse teams. Since the launch of the college’s lacrosse program in February 2022, both teams have rapidly changed the culture surrounding Flagler athletics while simultaneously growing the sport throughout St. Augustine and Northeast Florida.
“We are incredibly proud of the rapid rise of our lacrosse programs,” said Jud Damon, Flagler’s director of athletics. “Both programs have played an important role in enhancing the Flagler brand nationwide.”
This week, the men’s lacrosse team traveled to Southern California and secured one of the biggest postseason victories in program history against the Concordia University Irvine Golden Eagles. The matchup remained tightly contested from start to finish, with both defenses controlling the pace throughout regulation. In overtime, Saints midfielder Griffin Moore delivered the game-winning goal to secure a 7-6 victory and send Flagler deeper into NCAA tournament competition. The win pushed the Saints to a 12-5 overall record and advanced the program to a matchup against the No. 1 ranked University of Tampa Spartans on May 10.
While the men’s team continues its postseason run, the women’s lacrosse program has captured the attention of the St. Augustine community with a historic undefeated season. The Saints enter the postseason with a perfect 17-0 record after dominating opponents throughout the regular season. The undefeated season earned the women’s team a first-round playoff bye and the opportunity to host the Saint Leo University Lions on May 9 at 7 p.m. The game will be hosted at Flagler’s lacrosse field located within the college’s athletics complex at 1715 Old Moultrie Rd. St. Augustine residents are encouraged to come out and support the team. Admission to the game is free for Flagler students and St. Johns County residents with a valid ID.
The women’s program has quickly emerged as one of the strongest programs in Division II lacrosse. In the five years since their inaugural season, the team has never posted a losing record. Players and coaches alike have built a culture centered on teamwork and accountability, allowing the Saints to compete consistently at a high level.
The success of Flagler’s lacrosse teams represents part of a much larger transformation occurring across the college’s athletic department.
Beginning fall of 2027, Flagler College will enter a new chapter in its history, transitioning from the Peach Belt Conference to the Sunshine State Conference- the most competitive NCAA Division II conference in the country. The move marks a significant milestone for the college and reflects the continued growth of its athletic programs, including the rising success of both lacrosse teams. Known as the “Conference of National Champions”, the Sunshine State Conference will provide Flagler athletes with the highest level of competition. College officials view the transition as an opportunity to strengthen Flagler’s athletic reputation throughout Florida and the Southeast. For the lacrosse programs specifically, the conference change brings new challenges as both teams prepare to compete on an even larger stage.
