Notre Dame’s men’s lacrosse team has achieved unprecedented success in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for the 2024 season
The Fighting Irish not only clinched the ACC regular season title but also dominated the conference’s individual awards, with standout performances from Chris Kavanagh, Shawn Lyght, and Matt Jeffery. Their exceptional contributions have solidified their places in the annals of college lacrosse history.
Chris Kavanagh: ACC Offensive Player of the Year
Chris Kavanagh’s 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular. The senior attackman was honored as the ACC Offensive Player of the Year, a testament to his offensive brilliance. He led the Fighting Irish with 19 goals and 34 assists, totaling 53 points for the season. His 4.81 points per game ranked third in the ACC, showcasing his consistent ability to contribute offensively.
Kavanagh’s impact extended beyond the regular season. He played a pivotal role in Notre Dame’s back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024, marking the first two titles in the program’s history. His leadership and performance were instrumental in the team’s success, culminating in a six-assist game during the NCAA National Championship victory over Maryland .
In addition to his ACC accolade, Kavanagh was named the 2024 Tewaaraton Award winner, recognizing him as the nation’s top college lacrosse player. He also became the first Notre Dame student-athlete to receive the ACC Male Athlete of the Year award, further cementing his legacy in the sport .
Shawn Lyght: Co-Defensive Player of the Year
Sophomore defenseman Shawn Lyght’s performance in 2024 was a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s defensive strength. Sharing the ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors with Duke’s Aidan Maguire, Lyght’s presence on the field was formidable. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and his leadership on the defensive end were critical to the team’s success.
Lyght’s recognition highlights the depth and talent within the Fighting Irish’s defensive unit, underscoring the team’s balanced approach to both offense and defense. His development and contributions suggest a bright future ahead, both for him personally and for the Notre Dame men’s lacrosse program.
Matt Jeffery: ACC Freshman of the Year
Midfielder Matt Jeffery’s inaugural season with Notre Dame was nothing short of impressive. Earning the ACC Freshman of the Year award, Jeffery quickly established himself as a key contributor to the team’s success. His dynamic playmaking ability and adaptability allowed him to make an immediate impact, earning him a spot on the All-ACC team alongside Kavanagh and Lyght .
Jeffery’s recognition as the conference’s top freshman underscores the strength of Notre Dame’s recruiting and player development programs. His promising debut suggests that he will be a central figure in the team’s future endeavors.
Team Achievements and All-ACC Selections
Notre Dame’s dominance in the ACC was further evidenced by the team’s impressive representation on the All-ACC selections. In total, seven Fighting Irish players earned All-ACC honors, tying the conference record for the most selections by a single team. This collective achievement reflects the depth and talent present throughout the roster, from the attack to the midfield and defense .
The team’s success was not confined to individual accolades. Under the guidance of head coach Kevin Corrigan, who earned his first ACC Coach of the Year award, Notre Dame achieved an undefeated 4-0 record in the ACC regular season. This accomplishment marked the fourth time the Irish have claimed at least a share of the ACC regular season title under Corrigan’s leadership .
Legacy and Impact
The 2024 season stands as a testament to the excellence of Notre Dame men’s lacrosse. The individual awards garnered by Kavanagh, Lyght, and Jeffery not only highlight their personal achievements but also reflect the collective success of the team. Their performances have set new standards for the program and have left an indelible mark on the ACC.
As the Fighting Irish continue to build on this success, the foundation laid by these standout players will undoubtedly influence the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons. The 2024 season’s achievements serve as a benchmark for future excellence, inspiring both current and future members of the Notre Dame lacrosse community.
the 2024 ACC men’s lacrosse season was a landmark year for Notre Dame, characterized by exceptional individual performances and collective team success. The recognition of Chris Kavanagh, Shawn Lyght, and Matt Jeffery underscores the program’s commitment to excellence and its bright future in collegiate lacrosse.
