Holy Cross senior defenseman Michael Rincon and freshman faceoff specialist Shane McDonnell were named to the All-Patriot League Men’s Lacrosse Second Team, according to an announcement by the league on April 27.
This recognition highlights both players’ strong performances during the season. The Patriot League’s postseason honors are given based on contributions throughout the year, with selections reflecting individual achievements among conference teams.
Rincon started all 14 games this season, recording personal bests in every category with 52 ground balls, 27 caused turnovers, and two assists. His total of 27 caused turnovers ranks third in the Patriot League and ties for fourth-most in a single season in Holy Cross history. He was twice named Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week and earned a spot on the NEILA Team of the Week once. This is his first postseason award from the Patriot League.
McDonnell played in all 14 games as a freshman, winning 140 faceoffs and collecting 74 ground balls—fourth most in both categories within the league this season—and adding three goals. His .579 win percentage at faceoff ranked third in the conference and placed him among the top twenty nationally. McDonnell received three Patriot League Faceoff Specialist of the Week honors, two Rookie of the Week awards, and one NEILA Team of the Week selection; this marks his first career postseason honor.
The full list of major awards includes Offensive Player of the Year Evan Plunkett (Army West Point), Defensive Player John Sullivan (Army West Point), Faceoff Specialist Madden Murphy (Boston University), Goalkeeper Sean Byrne (Army West Point), Rookie Finn Morgan (Lehigh), and Loyola Maryland’s staff led by Charley Toomey as Coaching Staff of the Year.
These recognitions demonstrate Holy Cross athletes’ impact within their conference. Observers may look for continued growth from both honorees as they progress into future seasons.
