APSU Lacrosse Makes History with Inaugural Win Over Gardner-Webb

The Governors come from behind to defeat Gardner-Webb 15-14 in their first-ever game at Fortera Stadium.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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The Austin Peay State University (APSU) lacrosse team won its inaugural game, coming from behind to defeat Gardner-Webb, 15-14, at Fortera Stadium on Saturday. Sophia Schwab scored the first goal in program history just 37 seconds into the first quarter, and the Governors rallied from an 8-7 halftime deficit to secure the victory.

Why it matters

This historic win marks the successful launch of APSU's new lacrosse program, which is the university's first new varsity sport since 2013. The Governors' comeback victory over Gardner-Webb showcases the team's resilience and potential for a strong inaugural season.

The details

APSU goalie Erin-Kate Roeder made four saves, including a game-clinching save with 28 seconds left. Samantha Houttekier and Lauryn Warfield each scored four goals, while Mak Patten added three. The Governors trailed 8-7 at halftime but went on a 6-0 run in the third quarter to take an 11-8 lead, which they would not relinquish.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
  • Sophia Schwab scored the first goal in program history just 37 seconds into the first quarter.
  • Houttekier's first goal came at the 3:56 mark of the first quarter.
  • Warfield's first goal came with 36 seconds left in the opening quarter.
  • Patten's first goal came with 46 seconds left in the first half.

The players

Erin-Kate Roeder

The Austin Peay State University goalie who made four saves, including a game-clinching save with 28 seconds left.

Sophia Schwab

The Austin Peay State University player who scored the first goal in program history just 37 seconds into the first quarter.

Samantha Houttekier

The Austin Peay State University player who scored a team-leading four goals.

Lauryn Warfield

The Austin Peay State University player who scored a team-leading four goals.

Mak Patten

The Austin Peay State University player who scored three goals.

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What’s next

The Austin Peay State University lacrosse team hits the road for the first time in its inaugural season when it takes on Furman on February 20th at Paladin Stadium in Greenville, South Carolina.

The takeaway

This historic win for the APSU lacrosse program showcases the team's resilience and potential for a strong inaugural season. The Governors' comeback victory over Gardner-Webb is a promising start for the new varsity sport at the university.