Grand Rapids, Mich.– The Aquinas Men's Lacrosse team had concerns about the weather heading into their season opener against Ottawa, but by game time, the Saints were more than ready to take the field. Despite the cold temperatures, AQ put together a scorching performance, overwhelming the Braves in a dominant 26-0 victory on Saturday at home.

Aquinas 26, Ottawa 0

From the opening faceoff, the Saints controlled every aspect of the game. A relentless offensive attack saw 14 different players find the back of the net, with Collin Wildman leading the way with four goals. Brady Waling, Oliver Modderman, Nolan Benoit, and Cade Linnemeyer each tallied three goals, while Cory Holmes, Reed Chastain, Dillon Wieschhorster, and others added to the offensive onslaught.

The Saints were just as dominant on the defensive side, holding Ottawa to only eight total shots, none of which were on goal. Aquinas' transition game was flawless, as the team completed all 19 of its clearing attempts, shutting down any hope of offensive rhythm for the Braves.

By halftime, AQ had built a commanding 13-0 lead. They continued to apply pressure in the second half, netting 10 goals in the third quarter before easing off in the fourth to seal their first victory of the season in emphatic fashion.

When all was said and done on Saturday, the stats were one for the record books. The Saints put on an offensive clinic in their season opener, with 14 different players finding the back of the net in a balanced and explosive attack. Collin Wildman led the charge with four goals, while Brady Waling, Oliver Modderman, Nolan Benoit, and Cade Linnemeyer each recorded hat tricks. Cory Holmes added a pair of goals, and five other Saints chipped in with one apiece, showcasing the team's impressive depth.

The unselfish play was also evident in the assist column, with Linnemeyer dishing out a game-high three helpers, followed by Waling, Wildman, and Ben Cash, who each recorded two. With crisp passing and relentless offensive pressure, Aquinas displayed teamwork and execution that set the tone for a dominant performance.

By the Numbers

• 14 – Different goal scorers for the Saints, showcasing their depth and unselfish play.
• 19-for-19 – Successful clears by Aquinas, maintaining complete control in transition.
• 15 – Assisted goals, highlighting AQ's crisp passing and teamwork.
• 8 – Total shots allowed by the Aquinas defense, with none making it on goal.

Coaches Take

Following the game, head coach Peter Treppa praised his team's well-rounded effort.

"I'm proud of the way we shared the ball and played selfless lacrosse," Treppa said. "We cleared the ball 19-for-19, logged 15 assisted goals, and had 14 different goal scorers. It's an honor to coach such an exceptional group of men."

Treppa also took a moment to recognize his defensive coordinator.

"I'd like to congratulate defensive coordinator Matt Wagner on his first collegiate win as a coach," Treppa added. "Matt is a fantastic coach and mentor to our players, and I'm grateful to have such a committed assistant on my staff."

Up Next

The AQ Men's Lacrosse team will stay home next Saturday as they host Missouri Baptist at the Aquinas College Athletic Field. The game is set for a 1:00 PM start, as the Saints hope to make it two in a row and continue to climb the ladder of the NAIA Top 10.