Key Takeaways
- Josh Yago transitioned from Air Force Academy to Notre Dame graduate studies, securing a spot in the MBA program and earning a third‑round draft pick in the Premier Lacrosse League.
- His offensive contributions have been pivotal, leading the Irish in points, assists, and goals while fitting seamlessly into a balanced attack.
- Yago’s tournament play has been spectacular, delivering 16 points across three games and showcasing unselfish playmaking that spreads the ball to multiple teammates.
- The player’s unselfish mindset and strong work ethic reflect his military background and have earned respect from teammates and coaches alike.
- A deep sense of duty to service members drives Yago’s willingness to wear the American flag on his jersey and play for both current and veteran service members.
- Looking ahead, Yago will balance PLL commitments with his military obligations, aiming to honor his academy roots while delivering a championship performance in the national title game.
Graduation and Academic Transition
Josh Yago’s post‑graduation journey began with enthusiasm upon learning he had earned one of Notre Dame’s coveted graduate slots. After a May acceptance into the Mendoza College of Business, Yago finalized a medical hardship waiver that cleared the way for him to play lacrosse as a senior in the upcoming season. The Denver native, who elected to pursue an MBA rather than a traditional service academy track, described the shift as “going to school like a normal civilian, having a good time, and not having the stress of the academy.” This transition marked the first time since his freshman year—when a knee injury sidelined him—that he could focus on both academics and athletic development without the rigors of military training.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Offense
Since donning the Irish jersey, Yago has become the linchpin of a dynamic, balanced attack. He leads the team with 22 assists and 54 total points, while his 32 goals trail only Luke Miller’s 33. Coach Kevin Corrigan emphasizes Yago’s ability to “play a central piece of a balanced offense,” noting that his presence has opened up space for other scorers. In the first three tournament games, Yago logged 16 points (five goals, three assists) and set up five different teammates with assists in the last two contests, underscoring the team’s depth and his unselfish approach. This offensive versatility has helped Notre Dame maintain a top‑ranked status and secure a berth in the national title game.
Tournament Performance and Statistics
During the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Yago’s impact was immediately evident. In the quarterfinals against Johns Hopkins, he contributed four goals and three assists in a 15‑9 victory. The following round saw him add three goals and four assists in a 15‑7 win over sixth‑seeded Syracuse. His cumulative tournament tally—16 points across three games—led all players, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure. Goalkeeper Thomas Ricciardelli praised Yago’s “ubering‑impactful” presence, noting that his confidence and chemistry with teammates have been crucial during the high‑stakes matches.
Playing Style and Team Dynamics
Yago describes himself as a “very unselfish lacrosse player,” a philosophy that resonates with Notre Dame’s collective mindset. He routinely creates opportunities for others, resulting in eight Irish players reaching double‑digit goal totals. This style not only spreads the scoring load but also mirrors the collaborative culture he cultivated in the Air Force program. Shawn Lyght, a defenseman who faced Yago in preseason scrimmages, anticipated his immediate influence and praised how Yago “exceeded all expectations.” The synergy between Yago’s disciplined, team‑first approach and the talent-rich roster has forged a cohesive unit capable of contending for championships.
Service Connection and Military Service
Beyond athletic accolades, Yago remains deeply committed to his military roots. He plans to wear an American flag on his jersey during the national title game as a tribute to service members past and present. A message from Air Force mentor Ray Sands—a simple request to “play for those service members”—served as a poignant reminder of his broader responsibility. Yago acknowledges that the upcoming game carries weight beyond personal achievement; it is an opportunity to honor “all my brothers and sisters back at the Air Force, Space Force, all military branches, those who have served and those who have passed.” This sentiment underscores his dual identity as both an athlete and a service‑oriented individual.
Future Plans and Professional Lacrosse
Following the championship, Yago will report back to Colorado Springs to fulfill his obligations with the Space Force, adhering to a Monday‑through‑Thursday schedule that accommodates his professional lacrosse commitments. The Premier Lacrosse League drafted him in the third round, a testament to his skill set and projected impact at the professional level. Balancing military service with a promising PLL career, Yago remains focused on delivering a performance that reflects both his personal aspirations and his dedication to the teams that supported him—whether on the academy’s lacrosse field or within the Irish program.
Legacy and Reflection
Reflecting on his collegiate journey, Yago recognizes the significance of being part of a Notre Dame squad that seeks to break a 21‑year drought of service academy teams reaching the Memorial Day championship—a milestone last achieved by Navy in 2004. He views the game as a platform to showcase the values he learned in uniform: sacrifice, teamwork, and perseverance. As he prepares for the final showdown, teammates, coaches, and mentors alike celebrate his growth from a promising cadet to a pivotal figure in one of college lacrosse’s most storied programs, confident that his legacy will extend far beyond the field.