GLENVIEW, IL—As the NHL has its “Original Six” the CILL has the “Original Four” in which two will kick off the 2014 CILL season. The Chicago Outlaws and the Grand Rapids Dragonfish will break the seal on Saturday night in Naperville, IL at the Players Sports Complex at 6 pm CT.
These two teams are very familiar with each other and perennial playoff contenders. Historically this game has been a hard fought one ’til the end with both teams leaving it all on the floor. “These are two of the ‘original four’ teams from this league and there is certainly no love lost any time we face off,” said Outlaws General Manager, Ray Kincaid, “Last season’s semi-final game is one we will never forget. We enjoy the intensity the Dragonfish bring every time they take the floor; this will be a great way to kick off the 2014 CILL season.”
For Grand Rapids, Dave Holding will return between the pipes and will be one of the big keys for the Dragonfish. “Holding has been one of the top league goalies every year,” said Outlaws captain Ryan Knautz. “His positioning is amazing and he is very difficult to beat.”
The Outlaws look for a big game out of their defense, led by Jim Younger and Jimmy Canzolino and company. “We’ve been working real hard these past eight weeks of practice and feel we are ready to face a strong opponent like Grand Rapids,” said Younger. “It really helps to practice week-in and week-out against the great offense we have assembled with the Outlaws.”
In terms of offense, the Outlaws are looking for big games from last year’s MVP Kyle Burke and Zack Dorn. “For the last two years we’ve been trying to get Dorn to use his big frame to cause chaos in the pick and roll game” said head coach AJ Collier. “This season it seems he is finally comfortable in that role. That mixed in with his record breaking shot speed makes for one scary player.”
Tonight’s game will be aired LIVE on the Lacrosse Radio Network and ASN with the pregame show beginning at 5:30 pm on ASN and The Lacrosse Radio Network
