Rocky Mount, NC - North Carolina Wesleyan women's lacrosse concluded its 2025 season on Saturday afternoon with a spirited effort in front of a supportive home crowd at Vernon T. Bradley, Jr. Stadium. Despite a hard-fought 11-6 loss to USA South foe Pfeiffer, the day was filled with emotion and celebration as the Bishops honored five graduating seniors who have left a lasting legacy within the program.
The Battling Bishops were paced offensively by senior Maxima Iglesias, who capped off her career in impressive fashion with a four-goal performance. Iglesias added a game-high seven draw controls and caused five turnovers in a standout all-around effort. She was joined in the scoring column by fellow seniors Alaska Evans and Alison Zuniga, each netting a goal in their final collegiate contest.
Jillian Stine anchored the defensive end with fourteen saves in goal, reaching another milestone in a career that has seen her surpass the 300-save mark. Her poise and leadership helped keep Wesleyan within striking distance throughout the afternoon.
Although Pfeiffer used a fast start to build an early lead, the Bishops never wavered. Iglesias netted the first of her four goals midway through the opening quarter to cut into the deficit, while Evans added another to keep Wesleyan close. The Bishops played its strongest lacrosse in the third quarter, matching the Falcons goal-for-goal as Iglesias, Zuniga, and the defensive unit stepped up to seize momentum.
In addition to the on-field action, the program celebrated five outstanding seniors during a heartfelt pregame ceremony. The Class of 2025—Alaska Evans, Anaya Sule, Izzie Wooten, Jillian Stine, and Alina Smith—was recognized for their leadership, academic excellence, and impact on the program.
Evans, a two-sport athlete and magna cum laude graduate from Louisburg College, thanked her teammates for helping create a true team culture. Sule, a standout in the classroom and campus community, plans to pursue a career in law following her graduation. Wooten, a Rocky Mount native and future educator, expressed gratitude for the relationships she's formed. Stine, who will complete her student teaching at Southern Nash Middle School, reflected on an unforgettable senior season. Smith, a double major planning to teach abroad, praised the bonds and safe space that Bishop Lacrosse has provided.
While the scoreboard didn't reflect the growth and passion shown throughout the year, Saturday was a fitting close to a season defined by perseverance, unity, and love for the game.
