Tufts men’s lacrosse is the best, and it’s not even close. In the national championship last year against Dickinson College, Tufts won 25–8 — a display of clear, untouchable dominance.
The last time the Tufts Jumbos lost a game was April 27, 2024, against the Hamilton Continentals in overtime during the NESCAC quarterfinals, but they went on to win the national championship later that year.
However, it’s not the winning factor that I suggest you watch a lacrosse game for, but rather how this team carries itself.
When I entered the stands to watch the game against Connecticut College, there was one key thing missing: students. There were parents, team alumni and even fellow student-athletes, but the stands lacked a passionate student section.
Even as a non-sports fan, I think going to a Tufts lacrosse game is worth it. There’s never a dull moment.
The Jumbos walk to Bello Field game-face ready, uniform lines of two — straight out of a movie. I haven’t seen anything quite like it in my time as an avid sports watcher.
Even their warm-up is captivating: Every movement is rehearsed and synchronized. You can feel how much each athlete contributes to the team atmosphere during warm-ups.
As soon as the game starts, the entire Tufts bench cheers for their teammates on the field. It’s entertaining to watch; the Connecticut bench looks over with incredulity, while the lacrosse parents bring passion from the stands.
Three minutes into the game, the Jumbos scored first. The way the Tufts bench erupted as soon as a goal was scored was like Taylor Swift walking on stage at the Eras Tour. Shouting, rallying and chest-bumping each other, this team could make even the most sports-averse person crack a smile. The players’ goal celebrations on the sidelines were my favorite part of the game.
For one celly, the bench played duck, duck, goose (which was my personal favorite). During a different celly, they took one athlete and tossed him into the air. Others included running up and down the sidelines, singing and choreographed dancing.
For decades to come, this men’s lacrosse team will go down in history as one of the greats, so I highly recommend you go watch their extraordinary breadth of talent. However, if sports aren’t your thing, I highly recommend going just to get a good laugh watching the bench cellies.
But don’t let the men’s success overshadow the women’s team. Just recently, first-year attacker Eleanor Helm scored five goals and five assists in one game against Williams. The women’s team also went to the national championship last year, losing to Middlebury by just one goal.
It’s hard not to smile watching the Tufts women celebrate when a goal is scored. Dancing to the music and cheering for their teammates, their joy lights up the field. They care deeply about each other and the team — it’s inspiring to watch.
We should be proud Jumbos of how outstanding both of our lacrosse teams are. For a school that prides itself on community, it’s time we start showing support for a part of our school that represents excellence.
