MIAA Lacrosse Rivals Commit to Virginia Military Institute

Two standout lacrosse players from the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), Luca Ball of Loyola Blakefield and Jake Van Metre from John Carroll, have committed to play at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Both athletes, who are also teammates with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), made their announcement on December 8, 2023.

This commitment marks a significant moment for both players as they join a military college known for its developing lacrosse program. VMI has seen remarkable improvement in recent seasons. After finishing with a record of 1-10 in 2021, the Keydets achieved an impressive 10-4 record in 2025, their best performance since 1988. This upward trend reflects the dedication of the coaching staff and the recruitment of talented student-athletes like Ball and Van Metre.

Building a Strong Future

Coach James Purpura, now in his third season, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the VMI lacrosse program. With the recent hiring of new head coach Taylor Mendoza, who previously served as an assistant at Washington & Lee and director of lacrosse operations at Penn State, the program is poised to elevate its competitive stature. Mendoza’s familiarity with MIAA lacrosse adds a strategic advantage as he builds a robust recruiting pipeline.

Ball expressed his enthusiasm for choosing VMI, stating that he believes the institution will provide him with the best opportunities for personal and athletic growth. He emphasized the importance of surrounding himself with peers who share similar values and ambitions. Ball also acknowledged the coaching staff for their exceptional support throughout his journey, particularly thanking Coach Haus, Coach Ford, and Coach Breschi from Loyola Blakefield.

Van Metre echoed similar sentiments, indicating that his decision to join VMI was driven by a desire for academic and athletic challenges. He has formed a strong connection with Coach Mendoza and is eager to serve his country post-graduation.

Looking Ahead

The commitments from Ball and Van Metre contribute to a promising future for VMI lacrosse. The immediate goal is to secure a spot in the Northeast Conference Tournament, which they narrowly missed in 2025. Ultimately, VMI aims to make its mark by qualifying for the NCAA Tournament, a significant milestone that would elevate the program’s status.

As both players transition from their current MIAA teams to VMI, they carry the hopes of their coaches and communities with them. Their success could potentially lead both their high school and future college programs to new heights, fostering a legacy of excellence in lacrosse.

Congratulations are in order for Luca Ball and Jake Van Metre as they embark on this exciting chapter in their athletic careers. The lacrosse world will undoubtedly be watching their progress at VMI.