TAMPA, Fla. – The University of South Florida women’s lacrosse team is quickly establishing itself as a force in the American Athletic Conference, and recent recognition from the league reflects that upward trajectory. Following a dominant 21-3 victory over Old Dominion University on Saturday, March 29, 2026, the Bulls received multiple weekly honors, signaling a strong start to the program’s second season. Kali Cleary was named the American Athletic Conference Midfielder of the Week, while Maggie Newton earned an Honorable Mention for her offensive contributions.
The USF women’s lacrosse program, launched in 2025, has already made a significant impact, drawing over 10,000 fans to Corbett Stadium during its inaugural season and finishing as the league’s runner-up in the American Conference Championship. The program’s rapid success is largely attributed to head coach Mindy McCord, who brought with her a wealth of experience and a proven track record of building successful lacrosse programs.
Cleary’s Dominant Performance Fuels Bulls’ Victory
Kali Cleary’s performance against Old Dominion was a key factor in the Bulls’ decisive win. The midfielder showcased an all-around skillset, scoring three goals on four shots, with all four attempts landing on target. Beyond scoring, Cleary contributed significantly to possession control, securing two ground balls and an impressive six draw controls. Her ability to win those crucial draw controls allowed South Florida to maintain offensive pressure and dictate the tempo of the game. Draw controls are particularly important in women’s lacrosse, as they provide a team with immediate possession after a goal or at the start of a novel period.
Newton Continues to Shine on Offense
Maggie Newton continued her strong offensive play, earning an Honorable Mention from the American Athletic Conference. The attacker tallied seven points against Old Dominion, scoring three goals and providing four assists. Newton’s efficiency was evident as she placed all three of her shots on goal, demonstrating her accuracy and ability to find scoring opportunities. She also added two ground balls and one draw control, contributing to the Bulls’ overall dominance in the game. Newton’s consistent scoring and playmaking ability make her a vital component of the USF offense.
A Speedy-Paced Offensive Philosophy
The Bulls’ high-scoring offense is a deliberate strategy implemented by Coach McCord. McCord has instilled a fast-paced, high-scoring style of play, drawing inspiration from the early 1990s Loyola Marymount men’s basketball fast break. This approach emphasizes quick transitions, aggressive shooting, and a relentless attack, which has proven effective in maximizing scoring opportunities. During her tenure at Jacksonville University, McCord’s teams consistently ranked among the national leaders in shots, points per game, and scoring margin, and she’s aiming to replicate that success at USF.
Looking Ahead: Liberty Awaits at Corbett Stadium
The University of South Florida women’s lacrosse team returns to Corbett Stadium on Thursday, April 2, to face Liberty University at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, providing fans with the opportunity to watch the Bulls continue their impressive season. Tickets for the game are available for purchase through USFBullsTix.com, and fans are encouraged to come out and support the team as they continue their pursuit of a conference championship.
The Bulls’ success is not only measured by wins and losses but also by the growing support from the Tampa Bay community. The program’s ability to attract over 10,000 fans in its first season demonstrates the increasing popularity of women’s lacrosse in the region. The team continues to actively engage with fans through social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram, providing updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
Following the game against Liberty, the Bulls will continue their conference schedule, with upcoming matchups against key opponents. The team’s performance in these games will be crucial as they aim to secure a top seed in the American Athletic Conference Championship tournament. The conference tournament is scheduled to take place in late April/early May, and the Bulls will be looking to build on their strong start and make a deep run in the tournament.
The USF women’s lacrosse team’s success is a testament to the dedication of the players, the leadership of Coach McCord, and the growing support of the Tampa Bay community. As the program enters its second season, it is poised to continue its upward trajectory and establish itself as a perennial contender in the American Athletic Conference.
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