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UT Spartans women’s lacrosse team basks in national championship glory

UT Spartans women’s lacrosse team basks in national championship glory

TAMPA, Florida.This summer has been a season of celebration for Spartans Women’s Lacrosse coach Kelly Gallagher, as she basks in the glory of her first national title and the rewards that come with it.

Gallagher and her team also won the Division II Staff of the Year title.

“It’s just a whirlwind to be able to win the national championship in Winter Park with all of our friends and family there,” Gallagher told FOX 13 Sports. “A quick bus ride home and continue to receive accolades.”

The Spartans’ crowning moment has garnered national attention and interest. Spartans lacrosse summer camps are filled with recruits looking to become the next Spartan stars.

“Now we’re seeing a more competitive caliber athlete who’s performed in both the ’26 and ’27 classes,” Gallagher said. “We’re excited to get to know them and get them down there and see if they can handle the heat.”

Of the 30 high school seniors who came to the University of Tampa Prospects Camp, the majority come from outside the Sunshine State. It’s a strong reflection of the reputation the Spartans program has across the country.

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Tessa Walls came from Pennsylvania and wanted to know what makes the Spartans program so special.

“It’s beautiful here,” Walls said. “I love the heat. I love the coaches. I love the campus. It’s just amazing.”

Being national champion is also a bonus.

“Oh yeah, I like that too,” she added.

Bella Avila was a member of the national championship team and came from Ohio to attend the Spartans’ summer camp, which is why she committed to UT.

“Oh, yeah, absolutely,” Avila said. “When you see the campus and you come here, you fall in love. Yeah, this is more my thing. It’s beautiful here. It’s sunny.”

Approximately 80% of the Spartans’ national championship team attended UT’s summer camp and this next generation of recruits hopes to make another run for the national title.

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