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Gras named Newcomer of the Year, Four land on All-Conference team

Gras named Newcomer of the Year, Four land on All-Conference team

Heart of America Athletic Conference announced its 2026 Men's Lacrosse All-Conference selections, with four standouts from the St. Ambrose Fighting Bees earning recognition after a strong season that saw the Bees go 9-5 overall and 7-2 in conference play.

Carter Gras, sophomore goalkeeper, headlined the honors as the Heart Newcomer of the Year, making an immediate impact in his first season with the Bees between the pipes.

Gras started all 14 games and logged over 770 minutes in goal, finishing with:

  • 186 saves (2nd)
  • 61.2% save percentage (1st)
  • 9.16 goals-against average (4th)
  • 7 wins

Gras anchored a defense that allowed just 7.21 goals per game in conference play, one of the top marks in the league. His consistency was key during St. Ambrose's late-season surge, including wins over ranked opponents and a five-game winning streak in April.

Cameron Washington, sophomore attacker, was one of the most dynamic offensive players in the conference, earning Second Team honors after leading the Bees in total points.

  • 68 points (t-2nd)
    • 29 goals, 39 assists (2nd)
  • Team leader in assists
  • Top playmaker in transition and settled offense

Washington's vision and passing ability fueled St. Ambrose's high-powered attack, which averaged 13.7 goals per game. He consistently created scoring opportunities for teammates and played a central role in multiple signature wins.

Zak Brown, sophomore midfielder, provided a reliable scoring presence all season, earning Second Team recognition for his offensive production and versatility.

  • 26 goals, 10 assists (36 points)
  • 88 shots, showcasing his aggressiveness as a scorer
  • Contributed in key moments, including multiple multi-goal performances late in the season

Brown's ability to generate offense and stretch defenses added another dimension to the Bees' attack, particularly during conference play.

On the defensive end, junior Aidan Fergus earned Second Team honors as one of the conference's top shutdown defenders.

  • 30 caused turnovers (team leader)
  • 35 ground balls
  • Consistently matched up against top opposing attackers

Fergus played a crucial role in a defense that thrived on disruption, helping St. Ambrose force 141 caused turnovers on the season and control possession in key games.