At the halfway point, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons have run the gamut of emotions for a full season. The Deacs enjoyed an early victory by dominating the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers only to get upset by Appalachian St. two days later. The trip to Florida proved to be a learning experience, while also giving both teams a test with an undermanned squad. Two tough divisional losses to East Carolina and N.C. State have put the Deacs in a huge hole for playoff contention, but recent outings against Tennessee and Pittsburgh, and also a huge win against Elon have boosted the Demon Deacons’ morale and have given the Deacs the confidence they need to enter the second half of the season.

The biggest bright spot for the Demon Deacons has been at attack, most notably freshman Will Langevin. In just his first season, Langevin has been the Deacs’ leading scorer and one of the tops in the nation. In the MCLA, Langevin ranks 8 th in goals (22), 4 th in assists (18) and 4 th in overall points (40). To accomplish such a feat as a freshman is outstanding, and he is clearly the leading freshman scorer in the nation. In the SELC, Langevin ranks 3 rd in goals, tied for 1 st in assists and 2 nd in points. Solid play by freshman David Wurtzbacher (17 g, 4 a) and sophomore Colston Edgerton (12 g, 6 a) have made the Demon Deacons’ attack the second most potent in the SELC.

At midfielder, the Demon Deacons have definitely been excited to see the return of senior Jason Kessler. After sitting out the 2006 season, it is clear that Kessler has not missed a beat, as he had 7 goals and 10 assists, making him second on the team in that category. The midfield unit has started to heat up as of late, as Rick Sullivan has scored four goals in his last three games and Bill Keenan has scored four in his last two. Senior Josh Greene finally got on the board with two goals against Pittsburgh and looks to continue to serve as the primary face-off man. Junior Chris Sutton has made the change from long stick midfielder to midfielder look easy, as he has scored twice this season and has made a significant impact. The third line has also contributed, as Gabe Park and Scott Mannear both have recorded goals, while Chris Knight and Jon Lindberg have continued to dish out assists.

Defensively, the Demon Deacons have rotated a number of talented poles into the mix. Sophomore defenders Kevin Heinsimer and Andrew Britt have been staples on defense, typically marking the top two opposing threats. Senior captain Brian Morris has made several starts and has played his best ball recently, playing strong shut down defense against Pittsburgh and Elon. Rick Chainani and Dan Russell continue to improve and compete for more playing time. At long stick midfield, the combination of Mike Barefield and Alex Juskiewicz had been one of the best in the SELC.

In goal, senior captain Bob Dachille and freshman Matt Brazitis have both had their moments. While starting most of the games, Dachille has had some good outings, including a 22 save performance against East Carolina and 24 save performance against Florida St. in losing efforts. His most notable effort came against Elon, as he recorded 19 saves while only allowing 5 goals. He also ranks 2 nd in the SELC with 138 saves, and 6 th in the MCLA. Brazitis has been an incredible addition to the team, as he has played superbly throughout the year. Against Florida, Brazitis started and recorded 21 saves in a losing effort. Matt has played well all year and ensured that the Deacs will have a bright future.

Despite their 3-7 record there is still hope for a playoff run. Wins against South Carolina, Virginia Tech and Clemson would all but ensure a second consecutive trip to the SELC Championships for the Deacs. With the latter two at home and the USC game at a neutral location, it looks to be a realistic possibility, but the Deacs will have to start to put it together like they did at Elon.

Shorthanded Deacs Pull Off Hard Fought Victory
March 22, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (3-7, 0-2) were able to pull out a victory in Elon on Wednesday night with a small roster, but huge heart. The Deacs traveled to Elon with just 14 players on the roster, and all saw a significant amount of action. The game started out slowly, as both teams’ goalies and defenses were up to the task early. Elon scored late in the first quarter on a backdoor cut to give the Phoenix a 1-0 lead after one. The second quarter was much like the first, although the Phoenix were able to score on an extra-man opportunity and on a fast break. After taking a 3-0 lead, the Deacs responded with a Bill Keenan goal, cutting the deficit to 3-1 at halftime.

The Phoenix were quick out of the gate in the second half, scoring two extra-man goals to extend the lead to 5-1. After this moment, however, the Demon Deacons were able to step up to the challenge and take it to the Phoenix. The Deacs were able to kill off a few more penalties, even scoring on a man down situation, as long stick midfielder Mike Barefield was able to assist Will Langevin to cut the deficit to 5-2. From here it was all downhill. Attackmen Langevin and Keenan (who is normally a midfielder) lit up the Phoenix’s second half keeper, scoring 6 goals amongst the two in the second half alone. A Bill Brown goal in the fourth helped during the onslaught, as the Deacs made it a 7-0 run to gain the 8-5 lead. In the final three minutes the defense and goalie Bob Dachille were solid. Dachille was able to make 8 saves in the final three minutes, several at point blank range, helping the Deacs keep Elon scoreless for the final 25 minutes of the game.

The win gives Wake Forest its’ hardest earned victory of the season and sends the Deacs to spring break on a high note. Wake Forest returns to action on Wednesday, March 21 st against Davidson on Water Tower Field on the campus of Wake Forest University. Admission is free and all are encouraged to come out and support the Deacs!

Deacs Lose Heartbreaker to Panthers, 14-12
March 22, 2007

In an out of conference shootout, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-7, 0-2) found a new way to lose to the Pittsburgh Panthers (3-1). Despite leading for the majority of the game, the Deacs were unable to hold on to the lead at the end and dropped their second straight game.

The game started out at a feverish pace, as both teams scored 4 goals in the first quarter. The awkward 4:30 start time proved to be difficult on both teams’ goalies, as the sun played a large factor early in the game. The Panthers capitalized on the Deacs failure to clear the ball and early penalties to get their early goals, while the Demon Deacon offense picked apart the Panther defense and starting goalie Philip Kritzer. The second quarter saw a shift in pace, as Pittsburgh switched defensive sets and went into a zone. Despite the new look, the Deacs were able to pick it apart and net 3 goals in the quarter, including one by senior Scott Mannear, who recorded his first goal of his career. The game was tied at 6 until a David Wurtzbacher goal with just 5 seconds left gave the Deacs a 7-6 lead going into halftime.

The third quarter was all Wake, as the Demon Deacon attack had several successful rides, keeping the ball in the Pittsburgh zone for the majority of the quarter. Midfielders Bill Brown, Josh Greene, and Bill Keenan were all able to record their first goal of the season in this quarter, helping give the Deacs a 10-8 lead entering the fourth quarter. The two teams traded goals to start the fourth, making it 11-9 in Wake’s favor, but after that the defense for the Deacs broke down. Pittsburgh was able to tie the game at 11 with just under five minute remaining. The Deacs, however, were able to counter this comeback with a Rick Sullivan goal to give Wake a 12-11 lead, a lead they took into the final two minutes. After a turnover on offense, Wake retreated back into their set defense, but saw the Panthers score to tie the game at 12. Immediately after the goal, the Panthers won the face-off and were able to take it down and score to take a 13-12 lead. Despite gaining the lead with 32 seconds remaining, the Panthers received a celebration penalty, giving the Deacs the ball and an extra-man opportunity. The opportunity, however, was unsuccessful, as the Deacs never got a shot off, and as the defense pressured, the Panthers were able to score on a one-on-one with goalie Matt Brazitis with 3 seconds remaining.

Despite the loss, the game was the most exciting of the season for Wake Forest. Ten Demon Deacons recorded a point and there was solid goaltending in both halves by Bob Dachille and Brazitis.

Second Half Surge Not Enough For Deacs, Fall To Vols 12-8
March 22, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-6, 0-2) came into Knoxville shorthanded due to injuries and other commitments, but left inspired after a gritty second half performance. Despite dropping the contest 12-8, the Deacs outscored the Tennessee Volunteers (3-2, 1-0) 6-3 in the second half, mostly with both squads’ starters still in the game.

Unfortunately for the Deacs, the game started out all Vols in the first quarter. The Vols scored the first goal of the evening within the first minute, and despite being matched by a David Wurtzbacher goal, the Vols would roll of 6 more in the quarter, making it easily the worst quarter of the year for the Demon Deacon defense. Despite being down 7-2 after one, the Deacs fought hard, allowing only two goals in the second despite not scoring in the quarter. Down 9-2 and undermanned, the Deacs easily could have given up. But that was not the case. The Deacs came out in the third quarter and matched the Vols 2-2 in the quarter behind goals by senior Jason Kessler and sophomore Colston Edgerton. After getting down 12-4 in the fourth the Deacs caught fire, scoring four in a row between Edgerton, Wurtzbacher and Will Langevin. Despite cutting the deficit to 4 goals with four minutes to play, it would be all the Deacs could muster, as the Vols hung on for the 12-8 victory. Solid play on both sides of the ball allowed for the Deacs to outscore a very talented Tennessee team 6-5 for the final three quarters. Despite a rough first quarter in which he allowed seven goals, senior Bob Dachille bounced back with 20 saves for the game.

Deacs Snap Drought, Drop Niners
March 22, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-5, 0-2) put an end to their 5 game losing streak with a strong second half performance, led by their youthful attack, and defeated the Charlotte 49ers (0-2), 11-6. The Deacs came out sluggish, surrendering a goal in the first minute to the Niners, but saw that disallowed due to an illegal stick. The Deacs were able to capitalize off of this three minute penalty by netting two goals to take the early lead. The defensive woes continued, however, as the Niners scored 3 goals in the first and erased the deficit, making it 3-3 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter saw the teams exchange goals and remain even at 4 with 7:00 remaining before a Will Langevin extra-man goal to put the Deacs ahead, and ultimately ahead for good. A David Wurtzbacher goal and solid defense for the rest of the way gave the Deacs a 6-4 lead going into halftime.

The third quarter saw the Deacs explode and extend their lead. Led by attackmen Langevin (1 g, 4 a), Wurtzbacher (4 g, 1 a), and Colston Edgerton (2 g), the Deacs’ lead grew to 10-6. Defensively, Mike Barefield took on the duties of shutting down the Niners leading scoring, rendering him ineffective the entire second half. The Niners were able to capitalize off of an extra-man and an unsettled situation, but in settled play, the Deacs defense was too much. The fourth quarter allowed for every player to see time, and also saw the Deacs expand their lead to 11-6. Every player contributed significantly.

Deacs Stumble at State, Losing Streak Extends to Five
March 22, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-5, 0-2) went into N.C. State (4-2, 2-0) looking to build on their first ever victory over the Wolfpack last season and also end their four game losing streak they were marred in this season. The Deacs came out strong, holding N.C. State scoreless for the first ten minutes, despite several good looks for the Wolfpack. Offensively, the Deacs were able to convert off of a clear, as senior goalie Bob Dachille took the ball downfield and found attackman Colston Edgerton sweeping for an open look and the go ahead goal. After gaining the 1-0 lead, however, the Deacs gave up two quick goals from approximately the same spot, helping the Wolfpack gain a 2-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.

After the Wolfpack extended the lead to 3-1, the Deacs responded with a man-up goal from Will Langevin to narrow the margin to one. The Pack responded with a strong run, netting three goals in roughly thirty seconds, seeing their lead shoot up to 6-2. The run can be attributed to the face-off success that State midfielder Tony Ingram was having. N.C. State won 8 of the 10 first half face-offs and dominated possession to take the 4 goal lead into halftime.

The third quarter was much of the same thing for the Deacs as it has been all season, as it was the third consecutive time the Deacs were held scoreless coming out of halftime. Great saves by Wolfpack sophomore goaltender Chris Chinn and an efficient, ball possession offense kept the Deacs off the board, while State was able to net one more, taking a 7-2 lead into the fourth.

The fourth quarter started off with a glimpse of hope for Wake Forest, as goals by Edgerton and David Wurtzbacher cut the lead down to three and excited the Wake Forest bench. It was not meant to be, however, as State quickly responded to go back up by 4, thus forcing an aggressive and out of position Demon Deacon defense for the rest of the way. This resulted in several unnecessary penalties by the Deacs and open looks for State, allowing for the Wolfpack to push the final margin to 10-4. The loss drops Wake Forest to 1-5 and more importantly 0-2 in conference, and extends their losing streak to 5. Wake looks to rebound Wednesday at home against NC-Charlotte.

WAKE FOREST/TYLA SKILLS CLINIC 2007
March 11, 2007

Click this link to register your son or to learn more about our 1st Annual Wake Forest/TYLA Skills Clinic.


Reminders and Updates
March 11, 2007

Things have been hectic at the university with midterms, but the website will be completely up to date (game updates, recruitment page, clinic page, etc) by Friday of this week, as we are currently on Spring Break.


Deacs Losing Streak Grows to Four
February 22, 2007

On a cloudy Saturday early evening, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-4) took on the East Carolina Pirates (2-1) in an SELC North Division battle. The past two seasons the Demon Deacons had gotten the better of the Pirates, beating them by one goal in both seasons. This contest would be as close as the others, but would see the Pirates claiming their first victory over the Deacs in three seasons.

The game started out all Demon Deacons, as the first quarter saw Wake Forest doubling East Carolina’s time of possession. Despite dominating the Pirates on both sides of the ball, the Deacs managed just one goal, by Chris Sutton on a feed from Jason Kessler. Defensively, the aggressive and early slides by the unit threw off the Pirate offense all quarter, and if the defense did bog down, goalie Bob Dachille was up to the task to stop the Pirates. The confidence continued to grow in the second quarter as the Deacs extended their lead to 3-0 on goals by Gabe Park and Kessler. The Pirates would respond, however, with a 3-0 run of their own, capitalizing on man-up opportunities and defensive break downs off of loose balls. After seeing their three goal lead slip away, the Deacs would respond, with goals by David Wurtzbacher and Will Langevin, with Langevin’s coming just 5 seconds before halftime.

The same Demon Deacon team that took a 5-3 lead into halftime did not show up in the second half. The Pirates struck first with a Pat Geraghty goal to cut the margin to 1, and continued to pile on throughout the quarter. The third quarter saw the Pirates maintain possession for roughly 13 of the 15 minutes, and saw Geraghty net 3 goals, as the Pirates would outscore the Deacs 5-0 in the quarter. The East Carolina run would increase to 6-0, as they drew first blood in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to 9-5. Despite holding the Pirates scoreless for the remainder of the game, it would not be enough, as penalties and lack of possession would catch up to the Deacs in the end. Two late goals by Colston Edgerton and Langevin were not enough, as the Pirates took the contest 9-7.

Deacs Start Strong, Falter Late in Loss to Gators
February 14, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacon lacrosse team finally got the start they’ve been looking for all season. Unfortunately for the Deacs, they were unable to maintain the momentum and ultimately dropped the game to the Florida Gators, 11-5. The Deacs started off strong, as midfielder Jason Kessler drove to the goal and put one past Florida goalkeeper Benjamin Perry. Wake Forest was able to keep the momentum up despite failed clears and missed opportunities on the offensive side due to the hot start from freshman goalie Matt Brazitis. In just his first start as a Demon Deacon Matt turned away several close range shots and held the Gators scoreless for the first 14:30 minutes of the game.

The second quarter saw Florida dominate the Deacs in transition. The lack of clearing from Wake Forest was a large contributor to both losses during the weekend, but in this quarter it would be stopping Florida’s clears that proved difficult. Tied at 1-1, Florida long stick midfielder Brad Swartz went coast to coast and scored on a wide open shot on Brazitis. Florida was able to get two more transition goals to increase their lead to three. A diving Will Langevin goal with just 8 seconds remaining sent the Deacs into halftime on a high note, down just 4-2.

The third quarter was the story of the game, as Florida began to assert themselves on an undermanned Demon Deacons squad. The Gators peppered Brazitis with shots, and despite the freshman goalie’s exceptional effort, they were able to increase their lead to 8-2. The Deacs managed just two shots in the quarter, and failed to establish any sort of quality possession.

In the fourth quarter Brazitis gave way to senior goalie Bob Dachille, who let in the first 3 shots he faced, but rebounded to make 4 saves. With the lead outstretched to 11-2, the Deacs could have given up late like last season against the Gators, but they fought back with two more goals from Langevin and one from Kessler. Unable to avenge the 13-6 loss in the playoffs against the Gators from last season, the Deacs still are able to take away a greater sense of pride, as they were without several key contributors and played hard to the end.

‘Noles Pound Deacs 16-2
February 14, 2007

On a Friday night in Tallahassee, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-2) took on the ninth-ranked team in the nation the Florida State Seminoles (4-0). The game started out in a downpour, both from the heavy and from the barrage of shots the Seminoles would fire off. The Seminoles quickly grabbed the lead in the first two minutes and did not look back for the rest of the game. The first quarter saw the ‘Noles absolutely dominate the time of possession, as when they weren’t scoring they were effectively riding the Deacs. Despite several saves from senior goalie Bob Dachille, the Deacs were unable to get the ball across midfield, as they were only able to fire off two first quarter shots.

The second quarter started off similar to the first, as the ‘Noles went on a 3-0 run to increase their lead to seven. After a Wake Forest timeout, the Deacs hunkered down and managed to keep the ‘Noles scoreless for the last 10:50 of the first half. This was due to the play of Dachille, and the effective team defense played by all 5 defenders in the rotation. Offensively, however, the Deacs would be held scoreless as FSU sophomore goalie Stephen Heiman made two point blank saves to maintain the first half shutout.

The second half saw the Deacs’ defense continue the scoreless streak until 10:00 remaining in the third went the ‘Noles got back on the board. The rout would continue, as the lead ballooned to 11-0 before Will Langevin could get on the board. Langevin was the lone bright spot on the offense as he recorded both Demon Deacon goals, one unassisted, one assisted by 5 th yr. senior Jon Lindberg. Despite making 24 saves, Dachille gave way to freshman Matt Brazitis down 11-1. Brazitis stepped in and made 9 saves while allowing 5 goals. While the Deacs ultimately fell 16-2, the team took a lot of positives out of the game, including the 15 minute scoreless streak for Florida St. It should also be noted the Deacs were without 9 players, including four starters (including #2 and #3 leading point scorers David Wurtzbacher and Colston Edgerton). The Deacs concluded their weekend trip to Tallahassee with a game against Florida.

Early Struggles Too Much to Overcome for Deacs
February 4, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-1) suffered their first loss of the 2007 season to the Appalachian State Mountaineers (1-1) on a cool Sunday in Winston-Salem. The Mountaineers jumped out on top early, scoring 5 of the first 6 goals and dominating the time of possession battle. The Deacons’ sloppy defense and a 3 minute non-releasable penalty contributed to the early onslaught by the Mountaineers. The second quarter was much of the same as Appalachian St. was able to increase their lead to 8-2. Just before halftime freshman Will Langevin got the Deacons back on the board. Despite giving up 8 goals, senior goalie Bob Dachille was able to record 12 saves, several of which were at point blank range.

Coming out of halftime the Deacons appeared to be a completely different team. Led by the attack of Langevin (3 g, 1 a), David Wurtzbacher (2 g, 1 a), and Colston Edgerton (1 g, 3 a) the Deacons were able to claw their way back into the game. Despite suffering a costly stick penalty that disallowed a Wurtzbacher goal, the Deacons were able to cut the deficit to 8-7 with 8 minutes remaining. The Mountaineers were able to respond, however, as a shot on a man advantage skimmed off the shoulder of freshman goalie Matt Brazitis. Despite allowing the goal Brazitis was key in the comeback as he recorded 7 saves while allowing just that goal. Despite controlling possession for the remainder of the game the Deacons were unable to record another goal and dropped the game 9-7.

Box Score
                        1st      2nd      3rd      4th      Total
App. State         5          3          0          1            9
Wake Forest    1          2          2          2            7

Goals: Langevin 3, Wurtzbacher 2, Edgerton 1, Sutton 1
Assists: Edgerton 3, Langevin 1, Wurtzbacher 1, Kessler 1
Saves: Dachille 12, Brazitis 7
Shots: ASU (35), Wake (25)


Here is the article from the Old Gold and Black, Wake's student newspaper, covering our first two games. A special thanks goes out to Don Pogoda for a great write-up.


Wake Defeats Coastal Carolina 15-2 in Season Opener
February 2, 2007

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons opened their 2007 season with a convincing 15-2 win over the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers. The win gave Wake Forest their largest margin of victory since 2004, and allowed for all players to see action. Offensively, ten Demon Deacons were able to record at least one point, while the defense held the Chanticleers scoreless for the first 43 minutes.

The Deacs started out strong with a goal in the first minute by freshman Will Langevin on a Vince Murphy pass and never looked back. Although sluggish the Deacs were able to end the first quarter with a 3-0 lead, capitalizing on two late goals. The second quarter was all Wake, as seven goals were scored for the Deacs while keeping Coastal scoreless. The attack unit of Langevin, freshman David Wurtzbacher and sophomore Colston Edgerton was key in kick starting the route. In their first games as Demon Deacons, the combination of Wurtzbacher (4 goals, 1 assist) and Langevin (3 goals, 4 assists) led the team in points scored. Edgerton, Wake’s returning leading scorer from 2006, netted two goals in his return to the field.

The second half proved to just as successful for the Deacs as the first, as the first two goals were scored by Wake. The Chanticleers were able to get on the board with just under 3 minutes remaining in the third quarter, but Wake quickly answered with two goals of their own. The teams traded goals late in the fourth resulting in a 15-2 final, and a 1-0 start to the season for the Deacs.

Other goal scorers include returning midfielders Jason Kessler (1 goal, 2 assists), Rick Sullivan (2 goals) and Dave Nix (1 goal). On attack A.J. Lyons (1 goal, 1 assist) and Jac Saltzgiver (1 goal) were strong off the bench.

Defensively, the Deacs were led by a solid rotation which gave everyone a great deal of playing time. In goal, Bob Dachille recorded 10 saves while allowing only two goals.

Box Score
                        1st      2nd      3rd      4th      Total
Coast. Car.       0          0          1          1           2
Wake Forest     3          7         4           1         15

Goals: Wurtzbacher 4, Langevin 3, Edgerton 2, Sullivan 2, Kessler 1, Nix 1, Lyons 1, Saltzgiver 1
Assists: Langevin 4, Kessler 2, Wurtzbacher 1, Lyons 1, Rose 1, Murphy 1
Saves: Dachille 10


SEASON OPENER THIS FRIDAY!
January 31, 2007

Wake Forest will play Coastal Carolina in their season opener on Friday at 7:00 PM on Kentner Turf. Admission is free!


Website Updates
January 31, 2007

Both the roster page and the schedule page are now up to date. Each player's bio is finished as well.


Roster Updates and Recruitment Page
January 25, 2007

We are in the process of adding player pages to each individual on our roster (which can be found under the "TEAM" link on the sidebar).

A recruitment page is also being worked on to gather information about prospective Wake Forest students that have an interest in lacrosse. We accept players at all skill levels. For the time being, you can email Bob if you are interested in playing for us next year.


Make a Donation or Buy a T-Shirt!
January 18, 2007

In an attempt to raise money for our spring season, we've added a "Make a Donation" button to the website (in the upper right hand corner). The Wake Forest Men's Lacrosse team is planning three long-distance road trips this semester (Florida, Tennessee, and Massachusetts) and we need your support!

You can also support us by buying a t-shirt. Information can be found on the "merchandise" link.


Team Prepares for the Spring Season
January 15 , 2007

The Deacs will begin preparing for the spring season on Tuesday, a day before classes resume.

The team will welcome back several students that were studying abroad in the fall, completing a roster of about 35 players.

Wake's first game is at home on February 2nd against Coastal Carolina. Go Deacs!