Liberty defeated Kennesaw State 16-9 on Apr. 29 in the first round of the 2026 Atlantic Sun Women’s Lacrosse Championship. With this win, Liberty advances to face Jacksonville, the tournament host and No. 2 seed, on Thursday at 6 p.m.
The match was significant as it determined which team would move forward in the championship tournament. The Lady Flames’ victory came after a strong offensive performance and a decisive stretch where they scored eight consecutive goals between the second and third quarters.
Katie Colavito led Liberty with five goals, including two during woman-up situations. Olivia Young added four goals, converting six of her nine shots on goal. Ava Menna played a key role by securing eight draw controls to help maintain possession for Liberty, while Ava Rajala contributed three goals for a hat trick. Sophia Nesci, named ASUN Freshman of the Year, provided four assists during the contest.
After an early tie at 3-3 in the second quarter, Liberty went on an eight-goal run that included three from Young and two from Colavito. Although Kennesaw State narrowed the lead to five late in the third quarter, Liberty responded quickly with three straight goals—including two from Rajala within twenty seconds—to regain control.
Goalkeeper Rachel Hines made four saves for Liberty while facing twenty-two shots; Cybella Smith recorded eight saves for Kennesaw State but allowed sixteen goals on thirty-eight shots faced. Additional notable performances included Kate Troutman scoring twice—her highest single-game total since her freshman season—and Madeleine Klunder leading with four ground balls and three caused turnovers.
Looking ahead, Liberty will play Jacksonville at Rock Stadium in Jacksonville on Thursday evening. The game will be streamed live.
