FORK UNION, VA – In its first year of existence, Fork Union Military Academy's Postgraduate Lacrosse program has made an immediate and undeniable impact, proving itself as a competitive force and collegiate pipeline on the national stage.
Over the course of an ambitious 29-game fall and spring schedule, the Blue Devils posted a 17-10-2 record, including wins against top-level competition across collegiate divisions: six wins against NCAA Division III teams, two against NCAA Division II programs, and victories over NAIA and JUCO opponents.
In total, the team scored 332 goals while participating in two premier recruiting showcases in Maryland, Autumn Gold and NHSLS, holding a winning record against elite national talent.
The team's success extended well beyond the field. Fork Union's PG Lacrosse athletes achieved a remarkable team GPA of 3.8, including term GPAs of 4.15 and 4.03, while securing over $2.4 million in college scholarship offers and earning $1.2 million in merit and athletic aid.
Players were recruited to top-tier NCAA Division I, II, III, and NAIA programs, validating the program's mission of academic and athletic excellence. The roster featured talent from six U.S. states, including Ohio, Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Florida, and Iowa, as well as two Canadian provinces, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
"This was an incredible first year in building our postgraduate program," said head coach and assistant athletic director
Chris Panos, a former NCAA D-1 and D-2 Head Coach, 12 year NLL and Team USA Box player, as well as current Greece National Team Box Head Coach. "We committed to a nationally competitive schedule and spent eight months building strength, skills, leadership, and discipline. The team embraced our culture, prioritized relationships, and focused on a team-first mentality. Their unity, through mind, body, and spirit, set the tone for future success."
Fork Union Military Academy's PG Lacrosse program is now recognized as a top destination for players seeking to elevate their game and prepare for the next level, on and off the field. Designed for high school graduates who want to continue training, earning college credits through dual enrollment, and gaining exposure without sacrificing eligibility, the program offers a unique bridge year for athletes with aspirations of competing at the highest level.
"If you're looking to challenge yourself, set yourself apart, and train to be elite, Fork Union is the place for you," Panos added. "We offer financial aid, and our PG year does not affect NCAA eligibility."