The Long Red Line: Cornell Lacrosse and the Forty-Eight-Year Quest for Glory

Cornell lacrosse entered 2025 with one objective: End a forty-eight-year championship drought. What followed was a season of grit, heartbreak, and redemption--a relentless march through adversity that tested every ounce of resolve.

In The Long Red Line, Christian Swezey details everything from the sting of an early-season overtime loss to Penn State to the razor-thin margins of Ivy League battles. In this dramatic season, the Big Red faced injuries, doubts, and the weight of history. Captain CJ Kirst, chasing records and playing through a broken hand, embodied the team's mantra: "Well done is better than well said." Alongside him were warriors like Hugh Kelleher, Mikey Long, and Chris Davis--whose comeback after two back surgeries became a defining moment of courage. Behind the scenes, coaches Connor Buczek and Jordan Stevens forged a culture of accountability and brotherhood.

Through snow-swept practices, grueling conditioning, and unforgettable senior speeches, Cornell clawed its way back to the NCAA tournament. When the Big Red stormed through Championship Weekend in Foxborough, it was the culmination of almost half a century of sacrifice and belief and honored the memories of two Cornell lacrosse legends: George Boiardi and Richie Moran.

Packed with insider stories, vivid game-day action, and the voices of those who lived the drama, The Long Red Line is more than a chronicle of a lacrosse season--it is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the pursuit of greatness. For Cornell alumni, lacrosse fans, and anyone who loves an underdog story, this is the ultimate ride to Memorial Day glory.

Christian Swezey began covering lacrosse in 1991. Since 2003, he has been a writer and columnist for Inside Lacrosse. He also spent twenty years covering sports at The Washington Post and is the author of We Showed Baltimore.