Spartans Set for Sunshine State Conference Semifinal Showdown Against Saint Leo

TAMPA, Fla. – The University of Tampa women's lacrosse team returns to postseason action as the No. 1 seed in the Sunshine State Conference Championship, set to host fifth-seeded Saint Leo in a semifinal showdown on Thursday. The Spartans, who earned a first-round bye, now face a Lions squad coming off a narrow upset victory in the opening round.

The Matchup: No. 1 University of Tampa (15-1, 5-1 SSC) vs. No. 5 Saint Leo (14-5, 4-4 SSC)

Date/Time: Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Location: Naimoli Family Athletic and Intramural Complex. 1120 West North A Street, Tampa, FL 33606

Series History: Tampa holds a 12–2 all-time record against Saint Leo and has won 12 consecutive matchups dating back to 2016. In their most recent meeting, the Spartans held off a late Lions surge, scoring twice in the final five minutes—including a game-winner from freshman Josie Bullock—to escape the Lions' Den with a 10–9 victory.

About the Spartans: The defending national champions enter the postseason as the top seed after a dominant regular season campaign. Tampa averaged a conference-best 17.69 goals per game and posted the SSC's top scoring margin. The offense is powered by senior attacker Peyton Howell, who finished the regular season with 78 goals, leading the conference and standing as the only player to average more than four goals per game. On the defensive end, goalkeeper Savvy Barbosa earned 10 wins and led the SSC with a .509 save percentage and a 7.70 goals-against average. Lexi Waters ranked third in ground balls per game, second in caused turnovers, and fourth in draw controls with 87. Meanwhile, Isabella Avila ranked sixth in ground balls per game, third in caused turnovers, and averaged over four draw controls per contest.

About the Lions: Saint Leo finished fifth in the SSC standings and opened its postseason with an impressive 11–10 comeback win over fourth-seeded Lynn. After trailing 7–5 at halftime, the Lions outscored their opponent 6–3 in the second half to secure the win. Anchoring the defense was goalkeeper Jessica Harclerode, who recorded 11 saves—her seventh double-digit performance of the year. She leads the conference with 8.50 saves per game, more than a full save ahead of the next closest goalie. Saint Leo brings a well-rounded lineup and enters the semifinals with momentum and a 14–5 overall record.