Tampa Knocks Off No. 6 Embry-Riddle in Regular Season Finale

TAMPA, Fla. – The University of Tampa women's lacrosse team delivered a statement victory on Wednesday afternoon at the Naimoli Family Athletic and Intramural Complex, defeating No. 6 Embry-Riddle, 17–8. With the win, the Spartans improve to 10-4 overall and 4-3 in Sunshine State Conference play.

How It Happened

Tampa came out firing in the opening quarter, scoring three goals in just over two minutes to take early control. Sia Markowski, Grace Lichtenberger, and Audrey Kahoun all found the back of the net, with Mary Kate Person assisting on each tally. Embry-Riddle responded with three of the next four goals to trim the deficit, but Peyton Howell closed the quarter with a score to give Tampa a 4–3 edge.

The Spartans created separation in the second quarter, outscoring the Eagles 4–1. Jenna Myhal opened the frame with a free-position goal, while Person and Maddie Szyluk added key scores. Tampa capitalized on player-up opportunities, converting twice in the quarter to take an 8–4 lead into halftime.

Tampa dominated the third quarter, delivering the decisive blow with a 6–0 run. Howell, Markowski, and Person led the surge, combining for all six goals in the period. The Spartans' defense held Embry-Riddle scoreless while forcing turnovers and limiting quality chances, extending the lead to 14–4 entering the final quarter.

In the fourth, Lichtenberger struck early on a player-up opportunity to push the advantage to 11. Although Embry-Riddle mounted a brief push with four goals in the period, Tampa answered with late scores from Person and Lichtenberger to secure the 17–8 victory.

Spartan Performances

• Person led the offensive effort with four goals and four assists, playing a role in nearly half of Tampa's scoring.
• Howell and Markowski each recorded hat tricks, combining for six goals on efficient shooting.
• Lichtenberger also tallied three goals and added an assist, while Myhal chipped in two goals.
• Szyluk and Kahoun each contributed a goal to round out the scoring.
• Defensively, Isabella Avila controlled possession with five draw controls and added two caused turnovers. Maddie Szyluk contributed five ground balls, while the Spartans forced 17 turnovers as a team.
• In goal, Savvy Barbosa earned the win, playing all 60 minutes and recording six saves.
• Tampa finished with advantages in shots (33-25) and caused turnovers, while capitalizing on key player-up opportunities to shift momentum throughout the game.

Up Next

The Spartans will play in the SSC Tournament on Saturday, April 18, with location and time TBD.