Firebirds Fall to Caldwell in Home Opener

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia women's lacrosse team fell to Caldwell University, 16–5, Saturday afternoon in their 2026 home opener at the E.B. Henderson Sports Complex.

Caldwell opened the game with momentum, scoring four goals in the first quarter. UDC answered midway through the opening frame when Jada Williams converted a free-position shot to tie the game at 1–1 before the Cougars closed the quarter with three unanswered goals to take a 4–1 lead.

The Firebirds responded with their strongest stretch in the second quarter, scoring three goals. Tamaya Edwards found the back of the net off an assist from Gabriela Martinez, while Williams added her second goal of the game. Aliyah Bailey later scored an unassisted goal to cut the deficit to 7–4 heading into halftime.

Caldwell pulled away in the third quarter, scoring six unanswered goals to extend its lead. The Cougars added three more goals in the fourth before Sysali Banks closed the scoring for UDC with a free-position goal in the final seconds.

Williams led the Firebirds with two goals, while Edwards, Bailey, and Banks each added a goal. Martinez recorded two assists in the contest.

Goalkeeper Natalia Perkins finished with 14 saves while facing 30 shots on goal.

UDC will look to bounce back as the Firebirds travel to Virginia State on Wednesday for a 4:00 p.m. matchup.