Bulldogs picked to win fifth-consecutive NEC title in 2016

SMITHFIELD, R.I. – Winner of the last four Northeast Conference Tournament crowns, the Bryant University men's lacrosse team has been picked to take home its fifth-consecutive title in 2016, as voted on by the league's head coaches.

The Bulldogs received five of a possible six first-place votes, with the remaining two going to Saint Joseph's. The Hawks were predicted to finish second, with Hobart polling third. Mount St. Mary's was tabbed in the fourth spot, while Robert Morris, Sacred Heart and Wagner rounded out the seven-team field.

Bryant opened its 2016 season Saturday with a 16-3 home win over Manhattan College, getting the campaign off to a strong start behind career performances from junior midfielder Ryan Sharpe (Poway, Calif.) and sophomore attack Cam Ziegler (Carlsbad, Calif.). The Bulldogs return nine of their 11 all-conference picks from a season ago, including All-American goalie Gunnar Waldt (Freeland, Md.).

For a full 2016 season preview, click here.