Rutgers Men's Lacrosse Travels to Stony Brook for First Road Game of Season

The Scarlet Knights face a regional rival as they look to establish their identity away from home.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Rutgers men's lacrosse team is heading to Long Island to face Stony Brook in their first true road game of the 2026 season. This matchup offers the Knights an early opportunity to show their depth, defensive resolve, and identity away from the comfort of Piscataway. Rutgers and Stony Brook have built a competitive regional rivalry over the years, with the Scarlet Knights holding a 9-7 lead in the all-time series.

Why it matters

This game is an important early-season test for Rutgers as they look to build on their strong preseason expectations. Facing a regional rival on the road will challenge the team's mettle and provide valuable experience as they aim to establish themselves as a top contender in the national landscape.

The details

Rutgers is led by standout players like Colin Kurdyla, who has 7 goals through 2 games, and goalkeeper Cardin Stoller, who was named to the Tewaaraton Award Watch List. The Scarlet Knights' defense has also been a strength, with junior Dylan Groff earning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors. Rutgers will look to continue their recent success against Stony Brook, having won 4 of the last 6 meetings between the two programs.

  • The game at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium is set for a noon faceoff on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • Last season's meeting between Rutgers and Stony Brook came in Piscataway, with the Seawolves securing a 9-8 victory after overcoming a 7-4 deficit.
  • The 2024 matchup swung in Rutgers' favor, with the Scarlet Knights earning a 16-12 victory on February 10, 2024.

The players

Colin Kurdyla

The leading scorer for Rutgers, having netted 7 goals through the first 2 games of the season.

Cardin Stoller

The Rutgers goalkeeper who was named to the 2026 Tewaaraton Award Watch List, recognizing him as one of the top netminders in the nation.

Dylan Groff

The junior first-year starter at close defense for Rutgers, who earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors following his performance against Army.

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What’s next

After the game at Stony Brook, Rutgers will return home for a three-game homestand in Piscataway, hosting Villanova, LIU, and Hofstra.

The takeaway

This early-season road test against a regional rival will be a crucial opportunity for Rutgers to establish their identity and build momentum as they aim to live up to their strong preseason expectations and become a top contender in the national lacrosse landscape.