California Lacrosse Team Kicks Off Season with Thrilling Win Over San Diego State
SAN DIEGO – The California Golden Bears women’s lacrosse team launched their 2026 season with an electrifying 13-12 victory against San Diego State. This intense, nonconference matchup took place at Snapdragon Stadium, drawing a record crowd of 1,137 fans excited for the tassel of new beginnings.
Game Highlights
The back-and-forth contest showcased the resilience of both teams, filled with suspenseful moments, nine ties, and four lead changes. The game-defining moment arrived when Maddie Willkomm netted her first career goal with just 6:01 left on the clock, sealing the deal for the Bears. Before that, Avery Hoeft tied the game for the final time, assisted by Courtney Wong, with 8:45 remaining.
“What a night to start the season,” said Wong. “This game was the definition of ‘it takes all of us.’ We were connected up and down the field, and it was evident that every person on the team had each other’s back.”
Star Performers
Leading the scoring charge was Emily Moes, who opened the scoring for the Bears with three goals. Wong complemented her performance with two goals and a career-high four assists, accumulating six points total. Additionally, Wong dominated the field with a career-high seven draw controls.
Other notable scorers included Josie Lillquist with two goals, along with first-time collegiate scorers Katie Bloomer and Katie McMullen. Freshman Alina Hsu contributed two assists, displaying the depth of the Bears’ talent.
Impressive Defensive Stand
Lulu Murphy made a remarkable entrance into collegiate play with 14 saves, including a critical stop against Keira Doyle-Odenbach in the closing minute. “I couldn’t do it without our defense,” Murphy emphasized. “They put me in the best position to see the savable shots.”
Coach’s Perspective
Head Coach Jennifer Wong celebrated the victory as a significant milestone for the team, noting the importance of playing in an electrifying atmosphere like Snapdragon Stadium. “Game one always has its ups and downs, but I thought we responded well and made big plays when needed,” Wong stated. “It gives us a lot of excitement as we look ahead to the rest of the season.”
Next Up: USC Showdown
Looking forward, the Bears will face USC in their next matchup on February 8, 2026, at 12:00 PM PT. This game not only serves as a crucial opportunity for the Bears to continue their winning momentum but also marks the Trojans’ season opener at Rawlinson Stadium, adding another layer of excitement. Fans can catch the game live on Big Ten Plus.
As the Golden Bears continue their journey in the 2026 season, the thrilling win against San Diego State sets a promising tone for upcoming games. Stay tuned for more exhilarating lacrosse action as they strive for a successful season ahead!
