Paul Rabil is the newest member of the New York Lizards thanks to a trade with the Boston Cannons. In this exclusive interview, we caught up with the MLL super star about his new team, injury recovery, and his time in Boston.
Q: Thoughts on joining the Lizards?
Rabil: I’m ecstatic. They’re a proven championship contender, with incredible young talent and veteran leadership. I’ve been really impressed with the Lizards coaching staff, front office and new ownership group — and now it becomes about how I can add value from my experience as a player and leader on multiple teams in different leagues.
Q: How would you describe your time in Boston?
Rabil: Full of pride. From my teammates, to coaches, and especially the fans, there was never a meaningless moment I spent in Boston. We worked hard on and off the field, and the organization will only continue to improve. I’ll take away great memories, a championship, and several best friends.
Q: Are you excited to play with guys like Ned Crotty and Rob Pannell?
Rabil: Both are guys that I’ve played with on Team USA — Ned twice, dating back to 2010. They’re such world-class talents that I’m looking forward to learning how to play off them, and maximize all of our strengths.
Q: Were you expecting to be traded?
Rabil: In a sense, nobody ever expects to be traded. But with that said, when you’re an organization in sports that sets out year over year to win a championship, and you fail to accomplish that goal, you’ve gotta reshuffle to prepare yourself for the next season. I feel very fortunate to walk onto a NY franchise that’s expressed how eager they are to get me. It’s a great opportunity.
Q: How have you recovered from injury this off season?
Rabil: Thanks for asking. Lots of rehab, and overall functional training. I have no doubt that I’ll be 100% for training camp.
