Cornell Lacrosse: A Storied Program
Explore the legacy and ongoing success of Cornell's lacrosse program, from its historic roots to its dominant presence in collegiate sports.

Cornell University's men's lacrosse program stands as one of the most historic and successful in collegiate lacrosse history. With a rich tradition dating back to the late 19th century, the Big Red has established itself as a perennial powerhouse in the sport.
Cornell Lacrosse: A Storied Program
The history of Cornell lacrosse began in 1887 when the first lacrosse game took place at Cornell. Two brothers, Albert and Tom Vickers, recruited friends and classmates to play, setting the stage for what would become a dynasty in the sport. By 1907, Cornell celebrated its first undefeated intercollegiate championship team, laying the groundwork for its long-standing success.
Historical Beginnings
The foundational years of the program saw many pivotal moments:
- In 1922, the first men's lacrosse freshman squad was formed with 40 participants.
- Cornell's first All-America selections emerged in the form of Walt Krauss and Joe Rooney in 1922.
- A year later, Cornell tied for the Northern League championship, marking its first victory over Syracuse.
- By 1924, lacrosse fervor took over Cornell with a record 104 men trying out.
Rise to National Prominence
The 1970s heralded a golden era for Cornell lacrosse under the stewardship of head coach Richie Moran. The team captured its first NCAA Division I men's lacrosse title in 1971. Further triumphs followed with consecutive championship wins in 1976 and 1977 - achievements that underscored Cornell's dominance in the sport.
During this era, Cornell set an unmatched streak with 42 consecutive victories between 1976 and 1978. This remains the longest winning streak in the history of Division I men's lacrosse. The 1980s saw further title game appearances and runner-up finishes in 1987 and 1988, sustaining Cornell's reputation at the zenith of collegiate lacrosse.
Recent Success
In contemporary times, Cornell continues to thrive. The team has clinched a share of 12 out of 16 Ivy League titles, and they reached the national semifinals in 2007, 2010, and 2013. In 2009, Cornell pushed through to the National Championship game. Most recently, as of the 2025 season, the Big Red is ranked #1 nationally, boasting a 9-1 record and an undefeated Ivy League run as of early April.
The recent face-off with Brown on April 5, 2025, was a showcase of Cornell's prowess, cementing their dominance with a 13-9 victory (source). Standing at the top, the Big Red remains a formidable force in lacrosse.
Legacy and Impact
Over the decades, Cornell has not just produced titles but has also nurtured numerous All-Americans. Starting with Charles Stainton in 1924, the Big Red's influence in lacrosse has helped propel the sport onto the national stage. Teams under coach Ned Harkness displayed spectacular performance, with a remarkable 35-1 record over three seasons.
Cornell's men's lacrosse program is nothing short of legendary, synonymous with the collegiate sport's growth and popularity. Their contribution to the game is enduring, as they continue to evolve and compete at the highest level.
Practical Takeaways for Lacrosse Professionals
Cornell's approach to excellence, discipline, and strategy offers valuable lessons for lacrosse professionals. Emphasizing teamwork and consistent training has been pivotal to their sustained success. Teams looking to excel should focus on maintaining a robust training regimen, clear communication, and strategic game planning.
Connecting With Cornell Lacrosse
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Call to Action: To delve deeper into the strategies that make Cornell lacrosse a perennial champion, visit our Cornell Lacrosse section and discover how your organization can benefit from our expertise in the sport.