Photo Credit: Di Miller
As the World Lacrosse Games 2014 have come to a conclusion, with the cloud of lacrosse memories still fresh in my mind. It is time to give my shout outs to those that showed great honor to the creator the past 10 days.
Goalie of the Tournament:
Dillon Ward of Canada for his outstanding play all tournament long as well as his outstanding effort in the Championship game. Ward made so many outstanding plays throughout the games to keep the Canadians in contention to make the Championship game, most importantly his adjustments when playing the same team the second time around. When facing the Iroquois the second time around he along with the offense was the X factor, as was the case against the Americans. The turning point was his point blank stop on Paul Rabil’s one on one, as the U.S. seemed to be shifting the momentum of the game.
All Star Attackman:
This award has to go to none other than Lyle Thompson. The 21 year old not only showcased his skill, but his maturity in helping lead the Iroquois to their first medal. His placement on the All World Team was a great recognition of what he brought to this years tournament. One of the greatest plays on a lacrosse field was his behind the back hand switch against team Canada, always looking to reinvent the game, it will be exciting to see his growth in the years to come.
Midfielder of the Games:
Keeping his reputation in tact is a tough task, but Paul Rabil never seems to disappoint his fans. He may have been contained in the Championship game by the stingy Canadian defense, but he had one of the best overall performances throughout the tournament. Paul has seemed to reinvent himself as a player; maybe it was his offseason surgery, or just time catching up to him. Whatever the reason he has come back and looks better than ever. Not just looking to contribute by placing the ball in the back of the cage, his assist numbers were astronomical for a guy that has been a feared shooter for so many years. Paul’s champion attitude and approach to the game is unmatched, he truly is a great face for the game, and we could easily see him again in 4 years on team U.S. His performance in the opening game was by far one of the best I’ve seen from a midfielder in a long time.
Shutdown D:
With so much great defense this past week, Tucker Durkin still found a way to stand out. His production on gb’s, body positioning, and team defense was something to marvel at. He owned just about all his matchups, and shutdown some of the greatest players to ever step foot on a field. At just 23 years of age Tucker has one of the brightest futures of a long pole as any American ever.
MVP:
A player that did not necessarily get overlooked for his performance by his fellow teammates, opponents, and social media is Kevin Crowley. The U.S. defense had no answer for Crowley in the Championship game, and he recognized it early. Looking very fresh at the right time, Crowley picked apart the U.S. with his methodical play. His 5 goals led Canada to the gold, over the powerhouse and favored U.S. squad. He was a man on a mission, and looked like a kid in a candy store during the post game medal ceremony. Congratulating his teammates, signing “Oh Canada” along with his mates, all with a grin ear to ear.
