From the fields of Morristown to the national stage, CJ Kirst's lacrosse journey has been one of relentless effort, resilience, and most recently, record-breaking success. A Delbarton Class of 2020 graduate and now the NCAA Division I all-time leading goal scorer, Kirst is living proof that the habits built in high school can truly fuel greatness. As a finalist for the 2023 Tewaaraton Award, and already on the 2025 watch list, the highest honor in college lacrosse, Kirst continues to represent the best of Delbarton—and he's far from finished.

Brotherhood and Memories That Last

When Kirst looks back on his time at Delbarton, it's not just the wins he remembers—it's the friendships. "I miss competing every day alongside my best friends," he says. "Some of my favorite memories were just hanging out in the locker room after practice." For CJ, those moments were as important as any championship.

Lessons That Endure

I asked CJ if there was anything that he learned at Delbarton that he still uses to this day at Cornell.  One principle that still guides Kirst today: nothing is ever given. "Success only comes when you consistently work," he says. "Every day, you've got to show up with effort, energy, and focus—and when you do that, the results take care of themselves." That mindset has carried him through the highest levels of college lacrosse.

From High School Star to D1 Standout

The biggest adjustment Kirst faced moving from high school to Division I lacrosse wasn't just the speed or physicality—it was mental toughness. "At the D1 level, you have to develop a 'next play' mentality. Resetting quickly and trusting yourself after mistakes is everything."

And it's not just game days that you use that mentality. "It's the little moments, like the huddle before practice with 50 of your closest friends, that remind you why you play," he says. "You realize you're part of something bigger than yourself."

Road Warriors: The Toughest Tests

Kirst has played in some of college lacrosse's most intense environments, but according to CJ, one venue stands out: the JMA Wireless Dome at Syracuse. "It's packed, the energy is wild, and after every Syracuse goal, the lights shut off like you're playing SEC football," he says. "It's the kind of atmosphere that tests even the most composed athletes."

With A Little Help From My Friends

Kirst has already spent four years at Cornell with former Delbarton teammate, and 2025 Tewaaraton Award Watch List member, Mike Long. But if he could bring one more former Green Wave brother to Ithaca? "It would be Cole Krauss (Duke)," he says. "One of my best friends and one of the toughest defenders I've ever gone against. If COVID hadn't ended our season, he would've gone down as one of the all-time greats to wear a Delbarton jersey."

Keeping the Rituals Alive

In sports, old habits die hard—and for Kirst, one high school tradition remains: a simple game of catch before every game. "Back at Delbarton, I always had a catch with LJ Millar before games. Now, at Cornell, I do the same thing with Ryan Sheehan. It loosens me up and helps me play free."

Defining Cornell Lacrosse

When asked to sum up Cornell lacrosse in three words, Kirst didn't hesitate: Commitment to Culture. "Cornell has one of the strongest cultures in college lacrosse because of the people who came before us—Richie Moran, George Boiardi, Eamon McEneaney. It's about selflessness, accountability, and pride in something bigger than yourself."

Advice for the Next Wave Of Lacrosse Stars

For any current Delbarton players dreaming of playing at the next level, Kirst offers simple but powerful advice: "Do everything you can so you don't miss a day. Pick up your stick every day—and love every second of it. Consistency and passion go a long way."

What He'd Tell His Freshman Self

If he could go back, Kirst would offer this to his younger self: "Learn as much as you can from the leaders around you. Delbarton is full of special individuals, and soaking up lessons from them in every aspect of life will make you a better person."

From locker room to national records, CJ Kirst's story is proof that greatness is built one day, one rep, and one moment at a time—and he's still adding to his legacy.  Best of luck to CJ and Cornell as they begin their quest for a national championship and hopefully, a Tewaaraton Award!