Kieran McArdle is playing in his first MLL season after being drafted fifth overall by the Florida Launch. The former St. John’s University standout has been a major contributor to the relocated club in just his first season.
While the Florida Launch are 4-3 on the year, McArdle joined the team for a Week Three win at home against the Ohio Machine. Kieran contributed in his first MLL game with one goal, and one groundball. He has only improved in his time with the Launch. The next week the team got a huge victory in Chesapeake where Kieran scored five goals and tallied one assist, and two groundballs. Kieran was named Cascade Rookie of the Week for his efforts in Chesapeake.
McArdle is tied for 10th in the league in goals with 14, only Ohio Machine player Logan Schuss has more goals in as many games. Kiernan ranks seventh for attackman in goals in a league with tons of talent in that position. With the arrival of Stephen Keogh from the conclusion of the NLL season that ended with a Championship for Keogh and the Rochester Knighthawks, it could’ve meant less playing time for the rookie, but he has solidified his place on the left side of that attack as a starter.
This year’s rookie class is a strong one already with a good showing from Jordan Wolf, Rob Emery and Tom Schreiber. However, McArdle has arguably been the best in the class thus far.
Florida returns home and will try to avenge their loss to the Rochester Rattlers that snapped their three-game win streak earlier this season. Faceoff is set for Friday night, June 20 at FAU Stadium in Boca Raton at 7 pm.
