Home Global Focus

Brevard Men's Lacrosse 2026 Schedule: 5 Must-Watch Games Under New Head Coach Austin Hurley

• minute read
Contents

The Brevard College Men’s Lacrosse program is set for a pivotal new chapter with the official release of its 2026 schedule, promising a fresh start and a renewed drive for success. As of December 26, 2025, the Brevard Tornados are gearing up for a challenging campaign in the NCAA Division III USA South Athletic Conference, all under the guidance of a brand-new leadership team. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the most crucial matchups, key dates, and the coaching staff changes that are setting the stage for an electrifying season at Finch Field.

The 2026 season represents a significant reset for the Tornados, who are determined to improve on their 2-13 overall record from the 2025 campaign. With a new Head Coach at the helm, the focus is on building a competitive culture and making a serious run at the USA South Tournament. Fans in Transylvania County and beyond have every reason to be excited about the action-packed calendar ahead.

Meet the New Leadership: Head Coach Austin Hurley and the Tornados Staff

The most impactful change for the Brevard Men's Lacrosse team heading into 2026 is the appointment of Austin Hurley as the new Head Coach. Hurley steps into the role for his first season at the helm, bringing a new philosophy and energy to the program. His arrival signals a commitment from Brevard College Athletics to elevate the competitive profile of the team within the USA South Athletic Conference. This leadership transition is a major storyline to follow throughout the season.

Brevard College Men's Lacrosse Coaching Staff (2026)

  • Head Coach: Austin Hurley (First Season)
  • Volunteer Assistant Coach: Josh Wells
  • Volunteer Assistant Coach: Scott Bundy
  • Athletic Director: Myranda Nash (Overseeing the program's strategic direction)

Hurley’s staff includes experienced hands like Volunteer Assistant Coach Josh Wells, who will be instrumental in player development, and Volunteer Assistant Coach Scott Bundy, a familiar name who provides continuity and institutional knowledge. This three-man coaching core is tasked with maximizing the potential of key returning players and integrating new talent, such as 2026 recruit Brayden Long, into the system.

The 2026 Brevard Men’s Lacrosse Schedule: Key Matchups and Dates

The Brevard Tornados’ 2026 schedule is structured to prepare the team for the demanding USA South slate, featuring a mix of non-conference challenges and crucial league battles. The season officially kicks off in early February, with the team looking to secure early victories to build momentum.

5 Must-Watch Games of the 2026 Season

These five games are identified as the most critical matchups for the Tornados, either for setting the tone early, testing their mettle against strong non-conference opponents, or determining their standing in the USA South.

  1. February 7 (Sat) vs. Western Carolina University (Scrimmage): While a scrimmage, this 3:30 PM EST contest at Finch Field is the first opportunity for Head Coach Austin Hurley to evaluate his squad in a game-like setting. It will offer the first look at the team's new offensive and defensive schemes.
  2. February 17 (Tue) vs. Point University: This early-season home game, scheduled for 5:00 PM EST, is a vital non-conference test. Securing a win against a team like Point is essential for building confidence and establishing a winning mentality before conference play begins.
  3. February 28 (Sat) at Oglethorpe University: A significant road trip to Atlanta, Georgia, to face the Oglethorpe Petrels. This 12:00 PM game will challenge the Tornados’ ability to perform away from the friendly confines of Finch Field and is a strong indicator of their mid-season form.
  4. March 28 (Sat) at LaGrange College: This is a critical USA South Conference matchup. After going 0-8 in the league in 2025, every conference game is a must-win. LaGrange represents a direct rival, and a road victory here would be an enormous boost to the Tornados' tournament hopes.
  5. April 25 (Sat) - USA South Conference Tournament - First Round: The ultimate goal for the regular season is to qualify for the postseason. The First Round of the USA South Tournament is the gateway to a championship run, and securing a berth would signify a successful turnaround in Coach Hurley’s inaugural year.

The USA South Conference Gauntlet: Brevard’s Path to the Postseason

The USA South Athletic Conference presents a formidable challenge for the Brevard Tornados. Competing in NCAA Division III, the conference is known for its competitive balance, making every single league game a high-stakes affair. The 2026 season is all about climbing the conference standings, especially after the team’s tough 2025 performance.

The conference schedule is the true measure of the team's progress. Key dates like the road game at LaGrange and other conference battles will determine who earns a spot in the coveted USA South Tournament. The ultimate prize, the USA South Conference Tournament Championship, is slated for May 2, 2026. This is the date the program is circling, as a conference title earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Players to Watch in the 2026 Campaign

The success of the 2026 season will heavily rely on the performance of the team’s veteran leadership and emerging talent. The defense will be anchored by players like Senior Defender Michael Peters, a towering presence who brings experience and size to the backline. Newcomer Luke Anderson, a Freshman Defender, is expected to make an immediate impact, providing a youthful spark to the defense.

In the midfield, Sophomore Sutherland Ray will be a crucial two-way player, responsible for both scoring and transition. The combination of experienced players and the new coaching staff should provide the necessary foundation for the Tornados to compete. The team is focused on improving its offensive efficiency and defensive solidity, two areas that will be key to reversing the fortunes of the previous season.

Why the 2026 Season is a Must-Follow for Lacrosse Fans

The 2026 Brevard Men's Lacrosse season is more than just a schedule of games; it is the beginning of a fresh era. The hiring of Head Coach Austin Hurley, the renewed focus on recruiting and player development, and the challenging USA South Conference slate all combine to create a compelling narrative. From the first scrimmage against Western Carolina to the final push for the USA South Tournament, every match will be a step in the program's journey toward respectability and success in NCAA Division III lacrosse.

Fans should mark their calendars for the home games at Finch Field, as the Brevard Tornados will be looking to capitalize on home-field advantage. The energy and passion of the Transylvania County community will be vital in propelling the team forward. Keep an eye on the official Brevard College Athletics website for any schedule updates and for the full roster announcements as the season approaches the opening face-off.

Brevard Men's Lacrosse 2026 Schedule: 5 Must-Watch Games Under New Head Coach Austin Hurley
brevard men's lacrosse schedule
brevard men's lacrosse schedule

Detail Author:

  • Name : Sidney Kling
  • Username : marvin.onie
  • Email : maiya.klein@hotmail.com
  • Birthdate : 1994-09-16
  • Address : 52547 Smitham Mission West Jessberg, KY 55121
  • Phone : +17815515922
  • Company : Gaylord, Wintheiser and West
  • Job : Retail Sales person
  • Bio : Est nihil et officiis sit hic eos et aliquam. Doloremque ipsum ex architecto labore tempora. Qui saepe reprehenderit quod.

Socials

facebook:

  • url : https://facebook.com/jpollich
  • username : jpollich
  • bio : Dignissimos numquam cupiditate mollitia possimus iusto.
  • followers : 3196
  • following : 1818

instagram:

  • url : https://instagram.com/jpollich
  • username : jpollich
  • bio : In odio sit non quasi. Qui quaerat ut consequatur velit non et.
  • followers : 2079
  • following : 860

twitter:

  • url : https://twitter.com/jack.pollich
  • username : jack.pollich
  • bio : In facere sed fuga magnam repellat officiis. Aut voluptates eum ex porro. Quia omnis quisquam deserunt enim similique voluptas.
  • followers : 126
  • following : 830

linkedin:

Random Posts