FARGO, N.D. -- The North Dakota State men's lacrosse team has released its 2022 schedule.

The Bison will compete against a 12-game schedule featuring some of the top programs in Division II along with a pair of MCLA Division I opponents.

NDSU starts the season on the road with the first seven games occurring either at neutral sites or at opponent's fields.

It begins with a game against Iowa State in the Twin Cities on Feb. 12 followed by a neutral site tilt against Utah State. High-powered Dayton and Missouri State await the Bison in Springfield, Mo., before a three-game weekend against UMLC West foe St. John's, Minnesota and Bridgewater State.

NDSU returns home on March 12 for its home opener as they will entertain defending national champion St. Thomas. After a two-week break, Grand Valley State makes the trip to Fargo to round out the home slate.

A neutral site weekend against Montana and Montana State completes the regular season.

"Just like every year, we try to put together the toughest schedule we can as a preparation for the national tournament," said NDSU coach Zach Bosh. "As of right now, I think our schedule will include games against 11 ranked teams.

"We will have one of tougher schedules in the country, but I guess playing in the deepest conference in D-II that's to be expected. Hopefully our guys recognize the opportunity that lies ahead of them."

2022 North Dakota State Men's Lacrosse Schedule

* - indicates UMLC West subdivision contest
$ - indicates contest played in Minneapolis
# - indicates contest played at St. John's
^ - indicates contest played at Missouri State
! - indicates contest played in Dickinson, N.D.