Clemson, SC – It’s not every day that a team’s debut mirrors the fanfare and fervor of a seasoned powerhouse. Yet, on Saturday, February 10th, the Clemson Lacrosse program etched a historic mark into the annals of collegiate sports. Within the brand-new confines of the Clemson Lacrosse Complex, the No. 23 ranked Tigers roared to an emphatic 19-10 victory over the Davidson Wildcats. This wasn’t just a win; it was a statement—a sellout show of 1,246 faithful supporters basking in the inaugural energy that unfolded lakeside.
“It was just really fantastic and really great energy,” beamed Head Coach Allison Kwolek, who couldn’t hide her elation. “I love the fans here, the community here, and I appreciate them coming out and supporting us. I’m proud of how the team came out today. Their effort was phenomenal all over the field and I love how we distributed the ball on the offensive end. It was a great way to start the season.”
The victory was particularly sweet given that it blossomed from the sticks of newcomers—seven out of eight goal scorers were donning the Clemson uniform for their first official battle. Eighteen of the Tigers’ 19 goals can be traced back to fresh talent, creating an exhilarating forecast for the season ahead.
Leading the charge was none other than Regan Byrne, the 13th-ranked freshman in the nation. Byrne’s prowess was undeniable as she netted the team’s first goal, sparking a feisty offensive bonanza. She finished with six goals and two assists—her six-pack of net rippers tying the second-most goals scored in a single game in the short history of Clemson’s lacrosse program.
“I just have such great teammates helping me out,” said freshman Regan Byrne. “They’re just so much fun to work with and they’re always keeping their eyes up looking for me in the middle of the field”
But Byrne wasn’t the only one breaking records. Claire Bockstie, the powerhouse graduate transfer, rewrote the Clemson book with nine total points, weaving her legacy through four goals and five assists. Meanwhile, between the pipes, Emily Lamparter notched six saves, fortifying the Tigers’ dominion well into the third quarter.
Despite Davidson drawing first blood early in the first quarter, Clemson responded with a vengeance—11 of the next 12 goals, to be precise, taking an 11-2 lead just 19 minutes into the game. They never looked back, cementing their lead and setting a relentless pace that left the Wildcats scrambling in their dust.
Yet, it wasn’t merely the prowess on the field that captivated the hearts of those present. It was the culmination of many “firsts,” forever etched into the storied history of the Clemson Lacrosse Complex:
- The first shot taken by Hanna Hilcoff, followed by the first save from Davidson’s Paige Doyle.
- The first goal for Clemson, delivered by the promising Byrne.
- The first assist credited to Emma Tilson, a crescendo to the ensemble performance.
- Sandy Campbell, from the Army Corps of Engineers, had the honor of the inaugural ceremonial draw.
“Claire always keeps her head up and we just alway know to look for each other,” Byrne speaking on Claire Bockstie. “When she is headed to the goal I know I have to go because Claire will look for me.”
Next Wednesday, February 14th, the Clemson Lacrosse team will hit the road for their first away game of the season against Furman. The Tigers have been hard at work preparing for this matchup and are eager to showcase their skills on the field. Be sure to tune in at 6:00 p.m. to see how they fare against the Paladins at Paladin Stadium. Then, on Saturday, February 17th, the team will return home to face off against Coastal Carolina at noon.
