Tar Heels Set for Back-to-Back Home Battles After Thrilling Opener
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - After a nail-biter of a season opener, the No. 8 North Carolina men’s lacrosse team is back at Dorrance Field this weekend for two more matchups to kick off the 2026 campaign. The Tar Heels will host High Point on Friday evening before turning around to face Iona on Sunday afternoon in what marks the program’s first-ever meeting with the Gaels.
Friday Night Lights vs. High Point
The action starts Friday at 5 p.m. when UNC welcomes a familiar foe in High Point. The Tar Heels have dominated this in-state series historically, holding an 8-1 edge, including a commanding 14-2 win on the road last season. While the Panthers will be looking to flip the script, Carolina has momentum - and history - on its side.
Sunday Debut vs. Iona
Sunday’s noon showdown will be a fresh chapter for the program, as it marks the first time Carolina and Iona will share the field. The Gaels are still in the early stages of building their program, entering just their second season of competition. For UNC, it’s a chance to test depth, stay sharp, and continue building rhythm early in the season.
Recapping the Thriller vs. Jacksonville
If last weekend’s opener was any indication, this Tar Heels squad knows how to close out tight games. With just over two minutes left on the clock, Mason Szewczyk delivered the go-ahead goal to lift Carolina to a gritty 11-10 win over Jacksonville. Szewczyk was all over the stat sheet, leading all players with four points (two goals, two assists) and showing poise in crunch time.
Brevin Wilson added a hat trick - the only one of the game - and continues to be a key offensive weapon. At the faceoff X, Brady Wambach gave the Heels a crucial edge, winning 12 draws to help control possession in a tight contest.
And let’s not overlook freshman goalie Josh Marcus. In his collegiate debut, Marcus recorded eight saves, providing a steady presence between the pipes and showing flashes of the potential UNC fans will be eager to watch develop this season.
Opening Day Dominance
With the win over Jacksonville, Carolina extended its season-opening win streak to 28 straight - a run that dates all the way back to 1999. That streak is the second longest in the nation, trailing only Maryland’s 34-game run. It’s a testament to the program’s consistency and ability to hit the ground running each February.
Championship Legacy in Focus
This season also brings a chance to reflect on the program’s rich history. Four of UNC’s five national title teams are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2026:
- 1981: 45 years
- 1986: 40 years
- 1991: 35 years
- 2016: 10 years
Those banners hanging at Dorrance Field aren’t just decorations - they’re reminders of the standard this team is chasing.
What’s Next
With two home games in three days, the Tar Heels have a chance to build early-season momentum and fine-tune both ends of the field. Friday offers a test against a known opponent, while Sunday’s matchup is about handling business against a new face.
For a team with postseason aspirations and a proud tradition, these are the kinds of weekends that set the tone.