If the defending champion Yale Bulldogs lost some punch to graduation, they’ve already made some steps to ensure the blow isn’t too bad.
With faceoff specialist Connor Mackie off playing professionally, Yale didn’t have to wait too long for a replacement. Albany FOGO TD Ierlan, after weeks of speculation, will suit up for the Bulldogs next season.
Ierlan made noise as one of the best faceoff specialists in the country as a sophomore, but after the Great Danes loss in the national semi finals to Yale, it became clear he was looking for another option for the upcoming season.
At first it appeared likely he would head to Cornell, where his brother will play as a freshman goalie. Syracuse was the other school rumored.
Early in the week, Ierlan was spotted on Yale campus, and the Bulldogs were suddenly in the mix. Ierlan was seeking a top academic institution, and once Yale emerged as a possibility, he took it.
Late last night, Ty Xanders of Inside Lacrosse reportered Ierlan would officially transfer to Yale for the upcoming season. Albany granted his release, so he is eligible to play in 2019, despite Yale being on the Albany schedule.
As just a sophomore, Ierlan posted the best single season faceoff year in NCAA Division 1 history, winning 79 percent of his draws. His only sub-500 game of the year was against Yale at New Haven.
Now, that’s where Ierlan will call it home.
Salisbury star Joe Neuman will also join the program as a freshman after earning Under Armour All-American nods, and play behind Ierlan at the X.
The Bulldogs defeated Albany in the regular and postseason matchups in 2018. The series will shift to Albany next season.
