James Madison University lacrosse defeated East Carolina University 9-7 in the semifinals of the 2026 American Conference Championship at FirstBank Stadium on April 30. The Dukes overcame a two-goal deficit in the fourth quarter, scoring four goals to secure their place in the conference title game for a second consecutive season.
The victory is significant as it marks James Madison’s continued success in reaching the championship round, reflecting consistent performance within the conference. Jordan Peterson and Bre McVicker each scored two goals, with McVicker providing the go-ahead goal during the decisive fourth quarter. Ava Bleckley led defensively by causing three turnovers and collecting a ground ball, while Ava Main added two caused turnovers and three ground balls.
Goalkeeper Abigail Beattie played all sixty minutes for James Madison, making five saves. For East Carolina, Katelyn Sclafani scored three goals, and goalkeeper Jaime Behar recorded fifteen saves over sixty minutes.
The game saw both teams exchanging leads throughout. Josie Pell opened scoring for James Madison before Peterson’s free position goal gave them an early advantage. East Carolina responded with a strong second quarter run but Chloe Bleckley’s late goal kept JMU close at halftime. The teams remained closely matched until JMU’s late surge secured their win.
Peterson achieved a career high with nine shots taken during the match; McVicker also set her personal best with six shots attempted.
Looking ahead, James Madison will face South Florida in a rematch of last year’s American Championship final at FirstBank Stadium on Saturday, May 2. The game is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Eastern Time and will be streamed on ESPN+.
