WALESKA, Ga. — The fifth-seeded Montreat College women's lacrosse team finished its season playing in the first round of the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Tournament. Taking on the fourth-seeded Georgetown College Tigers, a team receiving votes in the NAIA Women's Lacrosse Coaches' Top 10 Poll, the Cavaliers ultimately dropped a 23-6 final. With the result, the Cavaliers concluded their campaign with a 4-9 (1-5 AAC) record, while the Tigers improved to 5-11 (3-3 AAC).
The game commenced with the designated away team controlling the initial draw, but an early turnover led to Georgetown's first goal. Montreat responded swiftly when Grace Wiegand converted a free position shot, leveling the score. The Cavs found the back of the net again when Marley Smith connected off a pass from Wiegand, cutting the deficit to 3-2. However, GC's offense proved formidable, adding four more goals to wrap up the first period on top, 7-2.
Ruthann Stout opened the scoring account in the second frame, slotting home a shot after receiving a feed off the stick of Anna White. Wiegand added another strike immediately following a successful clear to cut the deficit to 8-4. Despite Montreat's efforts, the Tigers countered with more offensive pressure, including a late score with just four seconds remaining. As a result, the Cavaliers headed into the half down 11-4.
Coming out of the intermission, the Cavs battled to grab some momentum. They managed to break through at the 10:16 mark when Wiegand notched her third goal thanks to the help of Smith. However, Georgetown maintained its control throughout the third. Despite several clear attempts, Montreat faced challenges in maintaining possession and converting opportunities. The third quarter ended with GC leading 17-5.
In the final frame, the Cavaliers saw an early highlight when Smith scored a goal, assisted by Stout, just over a minute into the quarter. From there, Georgetown responded with a strong defensive front, keeping the Cavs scoreless for the rest of the fourth. The game ended with the Tigers securing a 23-6 AAC Tournament victory over Montreat.
On the afternoon, Georgetown led both teams in shots (42-16), ground balls (14-8), turnovers (16-7), free position scores (2-1) and draw controls (21-8). The Cavaliers held the edge in saves (14-8) and total clears (19-18).
Anastasia Rust made 14 stops in net, showcasing her defensive capabilities. Wiegand led the offense with three goals and an assist, while placing three of her seven shots on target. Smith contributed significantly with two goals and a helper, finding the back of the net on both her shot attempts. Stout added to the scoring with a goal and an assist, and she also collected two ground balls and two draw controls.
The Montreat College women's lacrosse team officially concluded its 2026 season with a 4-9 (1-5 AAC) record. The Cavs now enter the offseason with their sights set on the continued growth and improvement of the program.
