CORNELL WINS 2025 MENS LACROSSE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!

[BearLover]

As a fan of Classicism, i enjoyed all the ridiculous allusions to Greek mythology that almost effortlessly wrote themselves into our story as presented on the broadcast. Funny how that works.

Really?  I thought the whole about Odysseus finding his way home to Ithaca was a little silly.  (I thought the allusion to it on the broadcast was silly, not "The Odyssey" itself.)

I usually cringe at stuff like this but I enjoyed it this time. It was an epic win.

[George64]

From Kotlikoff:


Cornell University Logo
Dear Cornellians,

Please join us in celebrating Cornell's men's lacrosse team for their electrifying NCAA championship victory May 26 over the University of Maryland. Our Big Red players demonstrated grit, determination, leadership and sportsmanship at every step of this historic season.

This victory marks Cornell's first NCAA team title in any sport since men's lacrosse won the same championship in 1977. Led by Connor Buczek '15, the Richard M. Moran Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse, the team soared in every way, tying a Division I record (18-1), leading the nation in scoring, winning Ivy League titles and producing eight All-American players.

The team's amazing season embodies the best of Cornell, showcasing our values of hard work and perseverance. Their incredible sense of community and teamwork guided them to this victory.

We invite all on the Ithaca campus to join us in honoring the champions with a campus procession at 4:45 p.m. this afternoon, starting at Tanner Terrace in Schoellkopf Hall, along Campus Road, and ending in the Crescent Parking Lot.

Please join me and Cornell Board of Trustees Chair Kraig Kayser, on behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, in congratulating the team members and celebrating their Cornell milestone.

Go Big Red!

Michael I. Kotlikoff
President

Kraig H. Kayser, MBA '84
Chair of the Cornell Board of Trustees

It would be a nice gesture, if Cornell were to hold a small commencement ceremony for the seniors who helped Cornell win this championship.  Several protracted their eligibility when they could have moved on, degree in hand, and made some money.  Kudos to them and the rest of the team for their accomplishments.

[Jeff Hopkins '82]

As a fan of Classicism, i enjoyed all the ridiculous allusions to Greek mythology that almost effortlessly wrote themselves into our story as presented on the broadcast. Funny how that works.

Really?  I thought the whole about Odysseus finding his way home to Ithaca was a little silly.  (I thought the allusion to it on the broadcast was silly, not "The Odyssey" itself.)

That's one of those things that sportscasters think is "clever" but all in all just strikes me as forced.

[Weder]

From Kotlikoff:


Cornell University Logo
Dear Cornellians,

Please join us in celebrating Cornell's men's lacrosse team for their electrifying NCAA championship victory May 26 over the University of Maryland. Our Big Red players demonstrated grit, determination, leadership and sportsmanship at every step of this historic season.

This victory marks Cornell's first NCAA team title in any sport since men's lacrosse won the same championship in 1977. Led by Connor Buczek '15, the Richard M. Moran Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse, the team soared in every way, tying a Division I record (18-1), leading the nation in scoring, winning Ivy League titles and producing eight All-American players.

The team's amazing season embodies the best of Cornell, showcasing our values of hard work and perseverance. Their incredible sense of community and teamwork guided them to this victory.

We invite all on the Ithaca campus to join us in honoring the champions with a campus procession at 4:45 p.m. this afternoon, starting at Tanner Terrace in Schoellkopf Hall, along Campus Road, and ending in the Crescent Parking Lot.

Please join me and Cornell Board of Trustees Chair Kraig Kayser, on behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, in congratulating the team members and celebrating their Cornell milestone.

Go Big Red!

Michael I. Kotlikoff
President

Kraig H. Kayser, MBA '84
Chair of the Cornell Board of Trustees

It would be a nice gesture, if Cornell were to hold a small commencement ceremony for the seniors who helped Cornell win this championship.  Several protracted their eligibility when they could have moved on, degree in hand, and made some money.  Kudos to them and the rest of the team for their accomplishments.

It looks like they might have had one at Schoellkopf: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKMr9IMt0XW/?img_index=1

[Larry72]

From Kotlikoff:


Cornell University Logo
Dear Cornellians,

Please join us in celebrating Cornell's men's lacrosse team for their electrifying NCAA championship victory May 26 over the University of Maryland. Our Big Red players demonstrated grit, determination, leadership and sportsmanship at every step of this historic season.

This victory marks Cornell's first NCAA team title in any sport since men's lacrosse won the same championship in 1977. Led by Connor Buczek '15, the Richard M. Moran Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse, the team soared in every way, tying a Division I record (18-1), leading the nation in scoring, winning Ivy League titles and producing eight All-American players.

The team's amazing season embodies the best of Cornell, showcasing our values of hard work and perseverance. Their incredible sense of community and teamwork guided them to this victory.

We invite all on the Ithaca campus to join us in honoring the champions with a campus procession at 4:45 p.m. this afternoon, starting at Tanner Terrace in Schoellkopf Hall, along Campus Road, and ending in the Crescent Parking Lot.

Please join me and Cornell Board of Trustees Chair Kraig Kayser, on behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, in congratulating the team members and celebrating their Cornell milestone.

Go Big Red!

Michael I. Kotlikoff
President

Kraig H. Kayser, MBA '84
Chair of the Cornell Board of Trustees

It would be a nice gesture, if Cornell were to hold a small commencement ceremony for the seniors who helped Cornell win this championship.  Several protracted their eligibility when they could have moved on, degree in hand, and made some money.  Kudos to them and the rest of the team for their accomplishments.

They did!!

[jjanow99]

Not sure where to post this, so here goes:

Connor has announced that Jordan Stevens is leaving the lacrosse world. I'm happy for Jordan & sad for us.

From Connor: Supporters of Cornell Lacrosse,

On the heels of a historic weekend, I'm writing with news of a staffing change. Jordan Stevens has decided to step away from the coaching profession to pursue other career opportunities. Jordan has been a foundational piece for our staff since he joined the Big Red coaching staff in the summer of 2016. He has poured his heart and soul into our program, working diligently to coordinate a great defense, but more importantly, to mold men of character that are prepared to achieve great things in their time after Cornell. He is passionate and caring, and every person in our locker room has felt his love for our student-athletes and his pride in Cornell Lacrosse.

Jordan will be missed by every person in our program, but selfishly, I will miss his presence immensely. He has been by my side for the vast majority of the past 15 years. We have worked in tandem to uphold the standards of Cornell Lacrosse and ensure that our program is one that our players, alums and supporters can be proud of. I can say emphatically that we would not have attained the level of success and stability that we achieved following our transition into our new roles had he not been by my side. As disappointed as I am to lose a friend and colleague on the sidelines, I am happy for him and his family that he has chosen to make a career pivot that better suits their aspirations. We will immediately begin a search for his replacement with hopes of replicating many of the same qualities that made Jordan such a great coach, mentor, recruiter and leader of our young men. Jordan will forever be an important member of the Long Red Line.

Best,

Connor

Jordan wanted to share a few thoughts with the Cornell Lacrosse Family. Please see below:

Cornell Lacrosse Family,

Since I was eighteen years old, Cornell Lacrosse has been the core of my life. The relationships, experiences and adversities have shaped me into the man I am today. I can say with confidence that I've poured my heart and soul into the program we all love, but somehow, I've still received more in return.

I'm writing today to share a personal update. After plenty of thought, I have decided to step down as the Mario St. George Boiardi '04 Associate Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse. As difficult as this decision is, in my heart I know it is the right one. I'm stepping away not because my love for this program has lessened – far from it – but because it is time to fully invest in my family and the lifestyle we envision. Putting my heart into this program has been an honor and privilege, and now, it is time for me to pour that time, love and passion into the ones that have supported me unconditionally every step of the way.

As competitors, we set out to win championships without compromising our standards, sticking true to the values that bind the generations of this program together. The joy we all experienced on Memorial Day was preceded by decades of sacrifice, love, hard work and resilience, and I could not be prouder to have been a part of it and so many other special moments along the way. The personal memories are endless – the team attending my wedding at Sage Chapel, my son learning to walk in the locker room and on Schoellkopf Field, going to battle with teammates and players I love. As I reflect, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude to have been surrounded by such loyal, driven and humble people during the most influential years of my life.

At this point, it's well known how unique the Cornell Lacrosse Program is. More than most, I've had a front row view of that, and the culture that is Cornell Lacrosse will forever be deep within the fabric of who I am and how I live. What makes this program so special isn't just the wins and losses, it's you. The alumni who paved the way, the families who support through thick and thin, the fans who never stop believing, and the players – past, present, and future, who give their all for Cornell today and every day. As both a player and coach, you all have supported my personal and professional growth time and time again.

Finally, I am grateful to move on to our family's next chapter at a time when the program has never been stronger. On and off the field, I believe Cornell Lacrosse is headed towards even brighter days ahead, in large part due to the incredible staff. Lead by Connor, they are incredible coaches, but more importantly people I love, trust and will miss dearly. Despite closing this chapter, I will never be distant from Cornell. I look forward to supporting the Big Red from wherever my next adventure takes me and continuing the relationships that mean so much to me. I truly believe the program will continue to build off the success and momentum earned this year, but what I'm most proud of, is that I know the values, standards and toughness will never change.


With love,
Jordan Stevens

[djk26]

Here are two local news stories on the Cornell lacrosse players' graduation.  In the first one, while Connor Buczek is speaking to the media, you can hear "Free Bird" in the background. Either the NCAA is now regulating graduation ceremonies, or the team likes that song more than we thought.  ::burnout::

https://www.wbng.com/video/2025/05/28/cornell-mens-lacrosse-celebrates-national-championship-graduation-back-campus/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-kj1L9EJjI

[mike1960]

Not sure where to post this, so here goes:

Connor has announced that Jordan Stevens is leaving the lacrosse world. I'm happy for Jordan & sad for us.

From Connor: Supporters of Cornell Lacrosse,

On the heels of a historic weekend, I'm writing with news of a staffing change. Jordan Stevens has decided to step away from the coaching profession to pursue other career opportunities. Jordan has been a foundational piece for our staff since he joined the Big Red coaching staff in the summer of 2016. He has poured his heart and soul into our program, working diligently to coordinate a great defense, but more importantly, to mold men of character that are prepared to achieve great things in their time after Cornell. He is passionate and caring, and every person in our locker room has felt his love for our student-athletes and his pride in Cornell Lacrosse.

Jordan will be missed by every person in our program, but selfishly, I will miss his presence immensely. He has been by my side for the vast majority of the past 15 years. We have worked in tandem to uphold the standards of Cornell Lacrosse and ensure that our program is one that our players, alums and supporters can be proud of. I can say emphatically that we would not have attained the level of success and stability that we achieved following our transition into our new roles had he not been by my side. As disappointed as I am to lose a friend and colleague on the sidelines, I am happy for him and his family that he has chosen to make a career pivot that better suits their aspirations. We will immediately begin a search for his replacement with hopes of replicating many of the same qualities that made Jordan such a great coach, mentor, recruiter and leader of our young men. Jordan will forever be an important member of the Long Red Line.

Best,

Connor

Jordan wanted to share a few thoughts with the Cornell Lacrosse Family. Please see below:

Cornell Lacrosse Family,

Since I was eighteen years old, Cornell Lacrosse has been the core of my life. The relationships, experiences and adversities have shaped me into the man I am today. I can say with confidence that I've poured my heart and soul into the program we all love, but somehow, I've still received more in return.

I'm writing today to share a personal update. After plenty of thought, I have decided to step down as the Mario St. George Boiardi '04 Associate Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse. As difficult as this decision is, in my heart I know it is the right one. I'm stepping away not because my love for this program has lessened – far from it – but because it is time to fully invest in my family and the lifestyle we envision. Putting my heart into this program has been an honor and privilege, and now, it is time for me to pour that time, love and passion into the ones that have supported me unconditionally every step of the way.

As competitors, we set out to win championships without compromising our standards, sticking true to the values that bind the generations of this program together. The joy we all experienced on Memorial Day was preceded by decades of sacrifice, love, hard work and resilience, and I could not be prouder to have been a part of it and so many other special moments along the way. The personal memories are endless – the team attending my wedding at Sage Chapel, my son learning to walk in the locker room and on Schoellkopf Field, going to battle with teammates and players I love. As I reflect, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude to have been surrounded by such loyal, driven and humble people during the most influential years of my life.

At this point, it's well known how unique the Cornell Lacrosse Program is. More than most, I've had a front row view of that, and the culture that is Cornell Lacrosse will forever be deep within the fabric of who I am and how I live. What makes this program so special isn't just the wins and losses, it's you. The alumni who paved the way, the families who support through thick and thin, the fans who never stop believing, and the players – past, present, and future, who give their all for Cornell today and every day. As both a player and coach, you all have supported my personal and professional growth time and time again.

Finally, I am grateful to move on to our family's next chapter at a time when the program has never been stronger. On and off the field, I believe Cornell Lacrosse is headed towards even brighter days ahead, in large part due to the incredible staff. Lead by Connor, they are incredible coaches, but more importantly people I love, trust and will miss dearly. Despite closing this chapter, I will never be distant from Cornell. I look forward to supporting the Big Red from wherever my next adventure takes me and continuing the relationships that mean so much to me. I truly believe the program will continue to build off the success and momentum earned this year, but what I'm most proud of, is that I know the values, standards and toughness will never change.


With love,
Jordan Stevens

We're going to miss him. He turned that defense into a championship caliber unit over the course of the year. There's not a ton of money in coaching college lacrosse, especially for assistant coaches. I hope he has great success in his next endeavor.

[George64]

They did!!

Nice to see President Kotlikoff, Provost Bala and all the deans there, too!  Also, Jimmy Rayhill, who obviously went to the game to watch his brother play.
.

[BearLover]

Sad about Stevens but understandable and he won us a natty so he will always be a Cornell legend. Does anybody know how much a Cornell lacrosse assistant probably makes? How about head coach?

[Weder]

Sad about Stevens but understandable and he won us a natty so he will always be a Cornell legend. Does anybody know how much a Cornell lacrosse assistant probably makes? How about head coach?

The Education Department tracks this, but the averages probably aren't particularly useful in trying to figure out what the pay for a specific position is (especially the ones that are endowed). It appears that not all of the coaching positions are full-time as well. (EDIT: The data is for 2022-23.)

But the averages:

Men's team head coach: $157,746   
Men's team asst. coach: $67,478
Women's team head coach: $111,277
Women's team asst. coach: $56,668

[CAS]

Agree with George64.  Little doubt that the Cornell senior leadership cares about athletics.  LGR!

[BearLover]

Sad about Stevens but understandable and he won us a natty so he will always be a Cornell legend. Does anybody know how much a Cornell lacrosse assistant probably makes? How about head coach?

The Education Department tracks this, but the averages probably aren't particularly useful in trying to figure out what the pay for a specific position is (especially the ones that are endowed). It appears that not all of the coaching positions are full-time as well. (EDIT: The data is for 2022-23.)

But the averages:

Men's team head coach: $157,746   
Men's team asst. coach: $67,478
Women's team head coach: $111,277
Women's team asst. coach: $56,668

Is this Division 1? Probably safe to assume the head assistant, as Stevens was, makes more than the average? It was probably time to ride off into the sunset and fulfill his destiny as a finance bro. No shame in that. Cornell legend.

[CAS]

Jordan Stevens was the Mario St George Boiardi Associate Head Coach, so that position is endowed.

[dag14]

From Kotlikoff:


Cornell University Logo
Dear Cornellians,

Please join us in celebrating Cornell's men's lacrosse team for their electrifying NCAA championship victory May 26 over the University of Maryland. Our Big Red players demonstrated grit, determination, leadership and sportsmanship at every step of this historic season.

This victory marks Cornell's first NCAA team title in any sport since men's lacrosse won the same championship in 1977. Led by Connor Buczek '15, the Richard M. Moran Head Coach of Men's Lacrosse, the team soared in every way, tying a Division I record (18-1), leading the nation in scoring, winning Ivy League titles and producing eight All-American players.

The team's amazing season embodies the best of Cornell, showcasing our values of hard work and perseverance. Their incredible sense of community and teamwork guided them to this victory.

We invite all on the Ithaca campus to join us in honoring the champions with a campus procession at 4:45 p.m. this afternoon, starting at Tanner Terrace in Schoellkopf Hall, along Campus Road, and ending in the Crescent Parking Lot.

Please join me and Cornell Board of Trustees Chair Kraig Kayser, on behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, in congratulating the team members and celebrating their Cornell milestone.

Go Big Red!

Michael I. Kotlikoff
President

Kraig H. Kayser, MBA '84
Chair of the Cornell Board of Trustees

It would be a nice gesture, if Cornell were to hold a small commencement ceremony for the seniors who helped Cornell win this championship.  Several protracted their eligibility when they could have moved on, degree in hand, and made some money.  Kudos to them and the rest of the team for their accomplishments.

They did!!

They have been doing this since at least 2009; maybe 2007.  My memory of details is foggy....