With a record 10-0 start to their season the Denver Outlaws have not only taken hold of the top spot in Major League Lacrosse, but are also off to their best start in franchise and league history. Denver’s success has come from stellar play from all sides of the field, with contributions from seasoned veterans and younger players alike.
“We have a bevy of players who are in their first and second years who are making huge contributions,” Head Coach Jim Stagnitta said. “…I can go down the line, there’s a bunch of guys on our team that are really new to this and I think each and every week they get more comfortable, and they get better at it.”
As the only undefeated team left in Major League Lacrosse Denver will be sending eight players to Charlotte – ranging from first-time All Stars to seventh-time selections – for the 2013 MLL All-Star Game.
Leading the way in the Outlaws selections are seven-time All Stars attackman Brendan Mundorf and defenseman Lee Zink. Goalie Jesse Schwartzman is heading to his sixth appearance, fresh off of back-to-back Player of the Game performances June 29 and July 4.
“I think my favorite thing about this team is the chemistry in the locker room. Off the field and on the field, there’s just some really strong leadership,” General Manager Tony Seaman said. “Lee Zink quietly, Anthony Kelly with his experience and his ability to communicate and Jesse Schwartzman just has been terrific.”
Face off specialist Anthony Kelly has been a force to be reckoned with this season, winning possession after possession for Denver and earning him his fourth All Star selection. Midfielder Jeremy Sieverts has also put together a solid 2013 campaign to make his second All-Star game.
For three of the eight Mile-High All Stars, this will be their first trip to All-Star weekend. Attackman Chris Bocklet leads the Denver offense in points and goals, and has already had three sock-trick games (six goals).
“Our goal going into every game is to have assisted goals,” Bocklet said about the Denver offense’s success so far this season. “And, if you look at the spreadsheet or stat sheet a lot of our scores were off passes.”
Midfielder Drew Snider will be seeing his first All-Star action, as well, and has been a staple in the Outlaws’ scoring column all year. With 35 points on the year so far he is third on the team in points, behind Bocklet (42) and Mundorf (36).
Rounding out the All Star selections is midfielder Zack Greer, who has been very efficient on the attack this season ranking third in the MLL in shot percentage.
The eight Outlaws representing Denver in this seasons All-Star game is tied for the most in the league with the Chesapeake Bayhawks, who will also send eight players.
The 2013 MLL All-Star Game will face-off at American Legion Memorial Stadium in Charlotte, NC July 13 at 7:00 p.m. EST.
