Photo Credit: Ian Neadle
The MLL Collegiate Draft took place Friday Night during the Annual US Lacrosse Convention in Baltimore, Maryland. The best of the 2015 class were on the board and the crowd was full of anticipation of where their favorite players would end up after graduation.
There were a lot of retiring players that were staples in the league for years. The Boston Cannons were one of those teams to fill their depth chart with players that would be new to the league to replace their departed stars. Ryan Boyle and Stephen Berger both retired. Paul Rabil was moved to New York. In doing so, there was a lot of “needs” to fill.
Florida was looking to bolster their lineup with players that would be able to make the commitment to playing south, while working likely in the north. The staff broke the mold that had won them championships as the Natonals and are now infused with pieces to make them a certified contender right away.
Florida Launch (Draft position):
- Lyle Thompson, Albany
- Connor Buczek, Cornell
- Chad Tutton, UNC
- Joe Locasio, Maryland
- Kevin Rice, Syracuse
- Pat Frazier, Loyola
- Pat Farrell, High Point
Florida was graced with the number one and two picks. They took full advantage of them as co-Tewaaraton Trophy winner Lyle Thompson went first. In picking Thompson, there is hope that maybe this could lure Cody Jamieson south to suit up as well. They played together in the World Games, amongst other times together, and the duo would be a dynamic combination in the league.
The midfield got a huge upgrade with the additions of Tutton, Buczek, and LoCasio. Each represents a slightly different style, each of which will be counted on to get the Launch to the playoffs this season. All three are All Americans and represent the very best at their respective universities.
Kevin Rice was a steal at 23. He will bring a lot of versatility to the attack position, being able to compliment any of his linemates. Pat Frazier will be recognized as one of the better defensemen in the nation by the end of the year, if he holds true to form leading a usually stingy Loyola defense in the Patriot League.
If the Florida Launch can hang tight in the league until these players show up and get acclimated, there could be a run to the championship game in their near future. Maybe not good enough to win it all this season, but within two years they can be taking home the trophy.
