Cornell men’s lacrosse is one of the most historic programs in the history of the sport. The Big Red are sixth in NCAA Division 1 history in wins but haven’t won a national championship in almost 50 years.

The team is poised to change that.

Just three seasons ago, the Big Red made it back to the final four, but lost in the championship game to Maryland 9-7.

The seniors on this year’s team were freshmen then, including two-time All-American and team captain CJ Kirst, who said that loss continues to motivate the team.

“Losing a national championship… going into every practice, every lift, every single day with that kind of chip on your shoulder,” he said.

Kirst used that chip on his shoulder to dominate the past few seasons. The senior is just six goals away from breaking Cornell’s all-time record and has a chance to break the NCAA record if he can keep up his early season scoring pace. 

That 2022 loss has affected more than just Kirst and the current senior class, though.

“They still think about it to this day. It’s what keeps them going,” said sophomore Ryan Goldstein.

The team has had success similar to its star player so far this season.

Two months into the year, the Big Red have beaten three ranked teams and entered this weekend ranked first in the country. On Saturday, they continue Ivy League play on the road against Brown. 

To continue the success of its early season start, Kirst said he knows the recipe is simple: follow what got the team to the title in the past.

“We have a sign in our locker room that says I give my all for Cornell today,” he said. “Just taking it day by day and making sure that you’re giving it your all on that specific day. It will lead to good things in the future.”