MEDFORD, MA (May 19, 2026) – The No. 4 Tufts University women’s lacrosse team is gearing up to face No. 1 Middlebury College in the NCAA Division III Semifinals this Friday at Judson Stadium in Rochester, NY. This marks the second consecutive year the Jumbos have reached the semifinals, and they are eager to claim their first NCAA title.
The match kicks off at noon on May 22. Click here for live stats and here for live video.
Tufts vs. Middlebury: A Tough Rivalry
Tufts has faced Middlebury 32 times, winning just six. Their last encounter on March 28 ended in a nail-biting 11-10 loss for Tufts. Historically, Tufts has won one out of three NCAA Tournament matches against Middlebury, including a victory in 2011.
Championship Journey
This will be Tufts’ fifth trip to the NCAA Final Four since 2019. The team has a strong track record, reaching the finals in three of the last four years. They earned their spot in Rochester after impressive wins over Haverford, Gettysburg, and Williams.
Did you know Tufts ranks first in the NESCAC for scoring offense? They average 15.65 goals per game, placing them 18th nationally. Their shooting and clearing percentages are also commendable, showcasing their well-rounded gameplay.
Standout Players
Freshman Eleanor Helm has made quite an impact, leading all players in points and assists in the tournament with 22 points and 12 assists. She set a record for the most points in a season for Tufts with 97.
Tufts counts on Allie Zorn, who has scored 58 goals this season, and six players have netted 20 or more goals. The depth in their squad is impressive; they have managed to achieve this despite losing five of their top six goal scorers from last year.
Preparing for Middlebury
Middlebury has a strong tradition, entering its 30th NCAA Tournament and seeking its fifth consecutive title. They have not lost a tournament game in 28 matches and boast the best scoring defense nationally, allowing only 4.95 goals per game. Their players have achieved remarkable individual accolades, such as Caroline Adams, the NESCAC Player of the Year.
Coaching Perspectives
Head Coach Courtney Shute has played a pivotal role in Tufts’ rise, boasting a 175-53 record over her eight years. Her accomplishments include leading the Jumbos to multiple NCAA appearances and nurturing numerous All-NESCAC players.
The NESCAC Edge
The New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) continues to dominate in women’s lacrosse, with three teams in this year’s Final Four. According to MasseyRatings, they hold the top ranking as a league, underscoring their strength and competitive edge in the sport.
As the Jumbos prepare for this pivotal match, the spirit within the team and their loyal fan base is electric. They’ll need every ounce of confidence and skill to overcome the Panthers and seize their chance at history.
