DATE: Saturday, October 4, 2025
LOCATION: Lexington, VA | Virginia Military Institute
SCORE: Fork Union 32, VMI (Club) 3
RECORD: 1-0

STORY: Fork Union Military Academy's Postgraduate Lacrosse program opened its 2025–26 season in commanding fashion, defeating the Virginia Military Institute Club team, 32-3, on the road Saturday afternoon.

The Blue Devils showcased balance, discipline, and teamwork from start to finish, setting the tone for the season with an unselfish offensive performance and a stingy defensive effort.

QUOTE: "Today's performance was a testament to our preparation, teamwork, and determination," said head coach Chris Panos. "Every player stepped up, executed the game plan, and left it all on the field. We're proud of the result, but even more proud of the way we earned it. From the first whistle to the final buzzer, we stayed locked in and played unselfish, high-intensity lacrosse. Wins like this don't happen by accident. They're built in practice, forged through trust, and finished with heart. We'll enjoy this one, but we're already focused on what's next."

Coach Panos praised the team's selflessness on offense and attention to detail:

"We got contributions from everyone on offense, which was great to see. Twenty-six of our 32 goals were assisted. That shows our willingness to share the ball and play unselfishly, which is key to our success."

The defensive unit was equally impressive, holding VMI to just three goals and executing clean clears throughout the game:

"Our defense and goaltenders were exceptional," Panos added. "They cleared effectively, maximized possession time, and kept consistent pressure on the opposition."

Discipline was another highlight, as Fork Union played a clean, composed game:

"We controlled faceoffs and ground balls, managed the tempo throughout, and didn't take a single penalty. I am really proud of that. It shows our ability to play with controlled aggression and composure," said Panos.

Looking ahead, Coach Panos noted areas for improvement:

"We still had some miscues and turnovers in key moments that we'll address this week. I'm excited to get back to work as we prepare for NCAA Division II opponent Virginia State," closed Panos. 

KEY PERFORMERS:

• Mason Simle: 11 saves, 2 assists
• Landon Lofters: 3 goals, 2 ground balls
• Sam Maxin: 2 goals, 3 assists, 7 ground balls, 4 caused turnovers
• Ellijah Pawluk-Zacharias: 4 goals, 3 assists, 3 ground balls, 2 caused turnovers
• Reymar Hare: 1 assist, 7 ground balls, 4 caused turnovers
• Danny Gardill: 6 goals, 2 assists, 2 ground balls, 2 caused turnovers
• Malachai Binder: 95% faceoff wins, 1 goal, 2 assists, 15 ground balls
• Nate Wiens: 5 goals, 2 assists, 4 ground balls, 4 caused turnovers
• Darien Sherwood: 11 saves
• Brandon Kitchel: 2 caused turnovers
• Ryan Calligaro: 2 goals, 1 assist, 6 ground balls, 4 caused turnovers
• David Crumback: 3 goals, 5 assists, 8 ground balls, 3 caused turnovers
• Tim Beach: 5 faceoff wins, 3 ground balls, 1 caused turnover
• Kaia Pierce: 4 goals, 2 assists, 3 ground balls, 1 caused turnover
• Ellery Alexander: 6 ground balls, 3 caused turnovers
• William Jordan: 2 goals, 5 assists, 7 ground balls, 5 caused turnovers
• Adam Rotunda: 5 ground balls, 5 caused turnovers

UP NEXT: 
Fork Union returns to action on Saturday, October 11, when the Blue Devils host Virginia State University at 4 p.m. on Stadium Field. The game will be live streamed for those unable to attend.