NEW ROCHELLE, NY – The Iona University women's lacrosse team opened the 2026 season in dominant fashion, defeating Central Connecticut State, 17–8, on Saturday afternoon at Mazzella Stadium. Powered by a balanced offensive effort and a standout performance from
Kacie Scarduzio, the Gaels jumped out early and controlled the game from start to finish.
Iona's offense set the tone immediately, erupting for 14 first-half goals to build an 11-goal halftime advantage. Crisp passing and efficient finishing fueled the surge, as the Gaels consistently created quality scoring chances and capitalized on them.
Scarduzio led all players with seven points, recording a hat trick while dishing out a game-high four assists to pace the attack. She was one of three Gaels to record hat tricks, joined by Calen Norton and Jocelyn Smith, who each finished with three goals. Norton also made a major impact across the field, contributing six total points, four ground balls, and four draw controls.
After an early 1–1 tie, Iona seized control with a 6–1 scoring run sparked by goals from Brianna Reynolds, Smith, and Sydney Grassi. The Gaels closed the opening quarter with an 8–2 lead and carried that momentum into the second, where Scarduzio completed her hat trick and Brie Gaccino and Sabrina Faulkner added goals to extend the margin to 14–3 at the break.
Central Connecticut showed improvement in the second half, holding Iona scoreless in the third quarter while getting goals from Amaya Monacelli and Abbey Cannon. However, the Gaels' defense remained composed, limiting any sustained comeback push.
Iona sealed the victory in the fourth quarter behind late goals from Norton and Reynolds to secure the 17–8 final.
In goal, Lauren Sweeney earned the season-opening win with 10 saves, anchoring the Gaels' defensive effort. She also collected three ground balls in a strong all-around performance.
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Iona hits the road for its first away contest of the season, traveling to Vermont on Tuesday for a 10 a.m. matchup.
