MOUNT BERRY, Ga. - Men's lacrosse is set to make huge strides in 2026 with the start of their season in the near future.
The Vikings are looking to take the next step this season, after finishing in the top half of the conference last season, and hosting the first round of the SAA Tournament.
Leading scorer Finn McClendon returns to Valhalla for his junior season, after dominating the field last season with 29 goals and 12 assists. That line was good enough for All-SAA Honorable Mention last year, as McClendon looks to build off his stellar sophomore season as the unquestioned first option for the Viking offense in 2026. Owen Morini and William Lee will join McClendon as feared scorers, as they combined for 37 points last season.
Defensively, Caleb Johnston returns for his senior season after his Second Team All-SAA campaign in 2025. The face-off specialist won 166 face-offs and grabbed 78 ground balls last season, as he hopes to solidify his reputation as a game changer in 2026. Sophomore goalie Jacob Briggs is looking for a breakout season after showing his talent late last season, collecting 42 saves in 5 starts.
Men's lacrosse's 2026 journey gets underway with their home opener on February 4 against LaGrange. The Vikings then hit the road for a two-game trip against Methodist on February 7 and at Huntingdon on February 11. The following two weekends formulate a home-stand for Berry as they take on Hampden-Sydney on February 21 and Piedmont on February 28.
When spring break hits the horizon, the Vikings have their final non-conference tune ups in Virginia, as the Vikings travel to take on Bridgewater on March 7 and Washington College on March 10.
SAA play picks up on March 21, as the Vikings battle Rhodes at home. Berry remains at home on March 25 to take on crosstown rival Oglethorpe. Then, they hit the road to face Southern Virginia on March 28 and return to SAA play on April 4 to face Sewanee on the road. The final stretch of the season sees the Vikings return home for a date against Centre on April 11. Finally, the Vikings hit the road once again to take on Hendrix on April 18 and Southwestern on April 25 to close out the regular season.
The SAA Tournament takes place from April 30 – May 2.
