(JMU Athletics) – James Madison lacrosse attacker Maddie Epke has been named to the 2025 Tewaaraton Award Watch List, as announced on Thursday. She is one of 50 players across the nation to be named to list of the award that recognizes the most outstanding performer in American men’s and women’s lacrosse each year.

The nod marks back-to-back seasons for Epke and four consecutive years of a Duke making the Watch List. Most recently, Isabella Peterson was a nominee in 2023 and 2024 and a finalist in 2023.

Epke completed one of the most successful sophomore seasons in JMU history in 2024. She set multiple JMU program records, including the single-season record for most draw controls (178), and single-game record for most draw control (19 at Richmond on April 3, 2024).

Among being on the Watch List last spring, the native of Guilford, Connecticut was named IWLCA First Team All-South Region, USA Lacrosse All-American Honorable Mention, ILWomen All-American Honorable Mention, American Athletic Conference First Team All-Conference, and to the All-Tournament Team.

Prior to the start of this season, Epke garnered Preseason All-American Honors from Inside Lacrosse and USA Lacrosse Magazine. Additionally, she was named the AAC Preseason Attack Player of the Year and selected to the Preseason All-Conference Team.

Epke and the Dukes will open their season on Friday, February 7 at 5 p.m. in Chapel Hill against the North Carolina Tar Heels.

— JMU Athletics —