Richard Checo Named to 2026 Tewaaraton Award Watch List
Senior Richard Checo from Lehigh University has been recognized on the men’s watch list for the prestigious Tewaaraton Award. Announced by the Tewaaraton Foundation, this award honors the best college lacrosse players in the U.S.
The Tewaaraton Award has been celebrating top performers since 2001. Each year, a committee of elite collegiate coaches evaluates players to select nominees.
So far this season, Checo has made an impressive impact. In just two games, he has caused nine turnovers and collected eight ground balls. Notably, he’s just six turnovers away from breaking the Division I record.
Upcoming Game
Lehigh’s next matchup is against the University of Michigan this Saturday at 1 p.m. in Ann Arbor.
2026 Men’s Watch List Highlights
The watch list features several standout players, including:
- Hunter Aquino (Penn State, Sophomore, Midfield)
- Ty Banks (Georgetown, Junior, Defense)
- Cullen Brown (Ohio State, Senior, Defense)
- Sean Byrne (Army, Senior, Goalie)
- Other notable names include Jack Cascadden, Ryan Croddick, and Joey Spallina from Syracuse.
As college lacrosse gains popularity, more fans are tuning in, reflected in recent surveys showing a 25% increase in viewership over the past year. Experts attribute this growth to the engaging gameplay and the rising profiles of athletes like Checo. The enthusiasm on social media platforms further amplifies this trend, with fans keenly sharing highlights and discussing player performances.
The Tewaaraton Award is more than just an accolade; it symbolizes the dedication and talent of these athletes. As Checo continues his season, he showcases what makes college lacrosse exciting to watch.
For more details on the Tewaaraton Award, you can visit the official Tewaaraton Foundation website.
