On February 14, the Mount Vernon Nazarene University men’s lacrosse team lost its first game of the season to No. 10 Taylor University, with a final score of 14-10 in Upland, Indiana.
The matchup saw Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) take an early lead with a goal by Dylan Haynes just 27 seconds into the game. Taylor responded quickly and both teams continued to trade goals throughout the first half. Haynes tied the game at 5-5 late in the second quarter before Taylor scored again just before halftime, taking a 6-5 lead into the break. In the third quarter, Taylor extended its advantage with a four-goal run and maintained control for the remainder of the contest. According to MVNU athletics, Haynes led MVNU with four goals and four groundballs, while Connor Kistner and Chase Lawler each scored twice. Vaughan Hawkins recorded 19 saves in goal for MVNU.
MVNU is a member of the Crossroads League and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, according to its official about page. The university emphasizes community service and global outreach through its programs, drawing from Wesleyan evangelical traditions to foster cultural and value development, according to its mission page.
The university features facilities such as the R.R. Hodges Chapel Auditorium and the Center for Student Success, according to its history page. It is affiliated with the East Central Educational Region of the Church of the Nazarene, governed by a board of trustees elected by regional districts, according to its about page.
MVNU focuses on educating the whole person and fostering Christ-like qualities for lifelong learning and service. The university has been led by presidents including Dr. Carson Castleman, who began his tenure in 2023.
MVNU will next travel to Adrian, Michigan for a matchup against Siena Heights University on February 19 at 6:00 p.m. More information can be found at their official athletics website.
