UTICA, N.Y. – The World Lacrosse Box Championships were held this past week. Two Rutgers men's lacrosse alumni were on the squad for Team USA, and behind their excellent efforts, Team USA had their best ever finish in the event with a Silver Medal.

Team USA secured the silver medal for the first time in its history after earning bronze in the previous five editions of the event. The Americans twice defeated the Haudenosaunee, key to their rise to second place. Ultimately, Canada won Sunday's Gold Medal game.

Connor Kirst excelled throughout the event and earned a place as just one of six played on the "World Team" following the event. Excelling in transition, Kirst posted nine goals in six games. He had his biggest impact in the semifinals, with two goals in the historic victory. None were bigger than when he scored the ultimate game-winner in transition with five minutes to play in the 12-11 victory.

Nardella battled at the faceoff 'X' in the event. After suffering an injury in the opening game, he sat out the next two games but returned for the playoffs. Nardella was key for Team USA's possession in the historic win over the Haudenosaunee, as he won 25-of-27 faceoffs in that game.

The duo was exceptional during their playing career 'On the Banks'. Kirst was a Third Team All-American and First Team All-Big Ten selection for RU in 2021, while Nardella was a three-time All-American while being named Big Ten Specialist of the Year during the initial conference season in 2015.