In a season unlike any other thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, the UW-River Falls lacrosse team was able to go 9-2 in the regular season, earning a trip to the NCAA tournament for the first time in program history.

Drawing an extremely talented John Carroll University team, the Falcons high-flying offense just couldn't get going against the Blue Steaks defense.

UW-RF struck first, as Emily Herdine found the back of the net less than a minute into the game. John Carroll responded less than a minute later though, then added three more goals before the Falcons responded. That response was from Emma Kohlbeck to bring the score to 4-2, but the Blue Streaks quickly added two more goals.

Holly Eckers score for the Falcons to make it 6-3, but then John Carroll scored six unanswered goals to go up big. At half, they led 14-4 and never let go of the lead.

Emma Heerey and Herdine each scored in the second half, but in the end, John Carroll was just too much, winning 21-6.

Despite the loss, the Falcons performance all season long proved that they are a premier team in the Midwest and in the nation. After just three seasons, the Falcons have earned an NCAA tournament bid and an overall record of 23-9.

For this season, Herdine led UW-RF in goals and assists, with 44 and 16, respectively. Kohlbeck scored 31 goals herself, while Gina Jablonski scored 27.

They end their season with a 9-3 record and look well poised for yet another run next season.