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For the fifth straight year, an NLF alum has won the Tewaaraton Award. For the second straight year, it’s a standout from NLF founding member Leading Edge that’s holding the trophy.
Notre Dame defenseman Shawn Lyght took home the 2026 Tewaaraton, becoming the first men’s defensive player to ever do so. He follows up fellow Leading Edge alum CJ Kirst, who had a generational season in leading Cornell to the 2025 national title to cap off his Tewaaraton season. Pat Kavanagh (Long Island Express / Notre Dame), Brennan O’Neill (Team 91 Long Island / Duke) and Logan Wisnauskas (Crabs / Maryland) were the prior winners that started the NLF’s run of five straight winners.
“Shawn is an incredible player who has continuously gotten better and better every year, and it’s amazing for him to be recognized as the top player in college lacrosse,” Leading Edge director Chris Roy said. “Nobody can dodge him, and he’s the definition of an eraser. He influences Notre Dame’s defense so much and is able to dictate where opposing offense have to attack because it sure isn’t going to be by going at No. 90. I couldn’t be more proud of him for all of his hard work and for earning the Tewaaraton. As good of a lacrosse player as Shawn is, he’s an even better person. That makes him an incredible ambassador for Leading Edge, Notre Dame, Seton Hall Prep and all of the other interests that he represents.”
Leading Edge’s 2026-27 tryout schedule is set. CLICK HERE if you’re interested in trying out for the Garden State’s top club and producer of the past two Tewaaraton winners.
More to Come for Lyght
Lyght grabbed 26 ground balls and caused 11 turnovers in helping the Irish reach the national championship game. A Day 1 starter for the Irish, he’s a two-time first-team All-American and has won the William C. Schmeisser Award, presented to the country’s top defenseman, in back-to-back years. He has at least one year remaining for the Irish, two if the five-for-five proposal surrounding college sports is implemented.
That’s very bad news for attackmen playing against Notre Dame.
NLF Tewaaraton Award Winners
2026: Shawn Lyght, defenseman, Leading Edge / Notre Dame / Seton Hall Prep, N.J.
2025: CJ Kirst, attack, Leading Edge / Cornell / Delbarton, N.J.
2024: Pat Kavanagh, attack, Long Island Express / Notre Dame / Chaminade, N.J.
2023: Brennan O’Neill, attack, Team 91 Long Island / Duke / St. Anthony’s, N.Y.