WORCESTER, Mass. - Holy Cross men's lacrosse freshman Aedan Cassidy was named to the NEILA Preseason Watch List.

Through the first four games this season, Cassidy has recorded 11 points on seven goals and four assists, picking up at least a goal each game. Cassidy recorded his first collegiate hat trick on Wednesday at Sacred Heart, tacking on two assists for a season-high five points.

The Chevy Chase, Md. native leads the Crusaders in points and is tied for the team lead in goals, while his six ground ball pickups is the top mark for attackmen. He sits in seventh in the Patriot League in points and ninth in goals.

Cassidy was one of just six incoming players - and one of just five freshmen - to receive the honor, and was described as "Captain at Landon, expected to be a starter at attack for us this year. Is a dynamic all around player that we expect will be balanced in terms of goals and assists."

The Preseason Watch List is replacing the NEILA All-New England Preseason Teams, and is intended to give greater exposure and more balanced representation to all of the teams and student-athletes in New England. Each New England team was permitted to submit one returning student-athlete and one incoming student-athlete (freshman or transfer) to be included on the 2026 NEILA Preseason Watch List. 

Cassidy and the Crusaders (2-2) continue their homestand on Saturday, Feb. 21 when they welcome Le Moyne to Kuzniewski Field for a 1 p.m. matchup.

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