Wheeling Jesuit Men’s lacrosse team participates in
3rd annual Nick Colleluori Classic

The Wheeling Jesuit Men’s lacrosse team finished its fall season playing in the NCC Lacrosse Classic in Philadelphia, PA on Sunday October 11th.  They played two games against DIII McDaniel (MD), and Wesley College (DE).  There was no official score kept but both games were very competitive. 

The 3rd annual NCC Lacrosse Classic was held on Saturday, October 10th and Sunday, October 11th at Ridley High School’s athletic complex in Folsom, PA.  It was a tournament that benefited research and awareness for blood cancer and to honor the legacy of Nick “HEAD” Colleluori, the Ridley grad, who played lacrosse for Hofstra University.  Nick passed away from the disease almost three years ago after fighting the 14-month illness. 

Estimated tournament revenues were expected to surpass $180,000.  Lacrosse Company Brine has teamed up with the HEADSTRONG foundation adding a new line of merchandise called “Relentless 27”.  Brine made a donation of $28,473.27, which represented the 1st quarter proceeds from the “Relentless 27” custom product line. 

Saturday showcased nine division one teams.  Those teams were Villanova University, UPENN, Drexel University, St. Joseph’s University, UMBC, Hofstra University, University of Detroit Mercy, Lafayette College, and Mount St. Mary’s University. 

Sunday showcased 6 division three teams and one division two team.  Those teams were McDaniel College, Wesley College, Widener University, York College, University of Scranton, and Ursinus College.  Wheeling Jesuit University was the lone Division two team in attendance.  Each team sold headstrong t-shirts raising $4,500 per team for the Headstrong foundation.

“I am very happy the WJU lacrosse team could play in such a great event.  The event was so well run and it gave our kids a chance to see first hand that we are just playing a game.  Nick Colleluori was a college student when he was diagnosed.  He was the same age as many of our players.  I was glad for our kids to see that you never know what can happen tomorrow.  I think our kids learned that life is precious and you need to enjoy everyday.  I am glad we could be a part the Headstrong foundation.  On the lacrosse side we were very happy being able to play two well-respected programs like McDaniel College and Wesley College.  The games were competitive and it showed us what we need to improve on during the off-season”.   Said WJU Coach Jay Sothoron

“Our two fall events were for great causes and we are very happy we could be involved in something that helps people in need.  I want to thank the Colleluori and Jenkins family for allowing us to help them in a search to find a cure for MSA and cancer.  Being a Jesuit University we feel it is our job to give back and help others”.  Said WJU Coach Jay Sothoron