How did Dan Deckelbaum’s experiences in lacrosse and personal relationships shape his journey of self-discovery. What lessons can be learned from his transformation from a successful yet unfulfilled individual to a more emotionally mature and self-aware person. How does Deckelbaum’s story inspire others to pursue personal growth and happiness.
The Rise of Dan Deckelbaum in Lacrosse and Real Estate
Dan Deckelbaum’s story begins with a familiar narrative of success in both sports and business. As a lacrosse player and coach, he achieved remarkable feats, including winning district titles and state championships. Simultaneously, he built a career as a realtor, selling houses and chasing the American dream. However, despite these external markers of success, Deckelbaum found himself in a constant state of pursuit, never truly content with his achievements.
Lacrosse Accomplishments
- Played lacrosse at the highest level
- Won district titles
- Secured two state championships
- Made a professional team
These accomplishments in lacrosse showcased Deckelbaum’s athletic prowess and dedication to the sport. Yet, the happiness derived from these achievements was short-lived, leaving him constantly questioning, “What’s next?”
The Illusion of Happiness: Chasing External Validation
Deckelbaum’s early life was characterized by a relentless pursuit of external validation. He measured his worth through achievements, rewards, and accomplishments. This mindset led him to chase after beautiful women, material possessions, and the trappings of success. However, this approach to happiness proved to be fleeting and unfulfilling.
In his own words, Deckelbaum describes his former self as “a normal guy, repressing my emotions, drinking, smoking weed at times.” This behavior pattern is not uncommon among individuals who struggle to find genuine contentment in their lives. But why do so many people fall into this trap of seeking external validation?
The answer lies in societal expectations and the perception that success equates to happiness. Many individuals, especially in competitive fields like sports and real estate, believe that achieving goals and acquiring possessions will lead to lasting fulfillment. However, as Deckelbaum’s story illustrates, this approach often leaves one feeling empty and constantly searching for the next high.
The Catalyst for Change: A Failed Marriage and Self-Reflection
Deckelbaum’s journey took a significant turn when he met a woman he was passionately attracted to. They fell in love, got married, and started a family. On the surface, it seemed like the perfect life – a beautiful wife, a child, and a “forever home.” However, beneath this facade of happiness, Deckelbaum describes himself as “a miserable fuck.”
The breakdown of his marriage became the catalyst for change in Deckelbaum’s life. He realized that he had been neglecting the emotional aspects of his relationship, focusing instead on material success and physical attraction. This realization forced him to confront his shortcomings and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Factors Contributing to Marital Breakdown
- Lack of emotional maturity
- Poor communication skills
- Inability to actively listen
- Neglect of emotional needs in the relationship
- Focus on external success rather than internal growth
The end of his marriage was a wake-up call for Deckelbaum. It forced him to confront the reality that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, not from external achievements or possessions. This realization set him on a path of personal growth and self-improvement.
Embracing Vulnerability and Emotional Intelligence
One of the most significant transformations in Deckelbaum’s journey was his newfound appreciation for vulnerability and emotional intelligence. He came to understand that true strength lies not in suppressing emotions but in acknowledging and expressing them.
How does embracing vulnerability contribute to personal growth? By allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, we open up opportunities for deeper connections with others and a more authentic relationship with ourselves. Deckelbaum learned that being in touch with his emotions and needs didn’t make him weak; instead, it made him stronger and more resilient.
Emotional intelligence became a cornerstone of Deckelbaum’s personal development. He learned to recognize and manage his own emotions, as well as to empathize with others. This shift in perspective allowed him to build more meaningful relationships and become a more effective leader and coach.
Key Components of Emotional Intelligence
- Self-awareness
- Self-regulation
- Motivation
- Empathy
- Social skills
By developing these aspects of emotional intelligence, Deckelbaum was able to transform not only his personal life but also his approach to coaching and leadership.
The Power of Self-Awareness and Personal Growth
Deckelbaum’s journey of self-discovery led him to explore various avenues of personal growth and self-awareness. He engaged in therapy, worked with life coaches, and even delved into astrology to gain a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world.
What role does self-awareness play in personal transformation? Self-awareness is the foundation upon which all personal growth is built. It allows us to recognize our strengths, weaknesses, and patterns of behavior. With this knowledge, we can make conscious choices to improve ourselves and our relationships with others.
For Deckelbaum, this process of self-discovery involved confronting his past traumas, examining his limiting beliefs, and challenging his preconceived notions about happiness and success. He learned to choose gratitude and happiness, even in the face of loneliness and adversity.
Tools for Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
- Therapy
- Life coaching
- Meditation and mindfulness practices
- Journaling
- Reading self-help and personal development books
- Attending workshops and seminars
By actively engaging in these practices, Deckelbaum was able to gain valuable insights into himself and develop the tools necessary for continuous personal growth.
Redefining Success: From External Achievements to Inner Fulfillment
As Deckelbaum progressed on his journey of self-discovery, he began to redefine what success meant to him. No longer was it about accumulating wealth, winning championships, or maintaining a perfect image. Instead, success became about personal growth, emotional maturity, and making a positive impact on others.
How does this shift in perspective change one’s approach to life and work? When we prioritize inner fulfillment over external achievements, we become more resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks. We derive satisfaction from the process of growth itself, rather than solely from the end results.
For Deckelbaum, this new definition of success translated into a desire to coach and lead others on their own journeys of self-discovery. He found purpose in sharing his knowledge and experiences to help others grow and make an impact on the world.
Key Aspects of Inner Fulfillment
- Self-acceptance
- Authentic relationships
- Continuous learning and growth
- Contribution to others
- Alignment with personal values
By focusing on these aspects of inner fulfillment, Deckelbaum was able to create a more meaningful and satisfying life for himself.
The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Others Through Personal Transformation
Deckelbaum’s journey of personal growth and transformation didn’t end with his own self-improvement. He recognized that his experiences and insights could be valuable to others facing similar challenges. This realization led him to embrace a new role as a coach and mentor, sharing his knowledge and helping others on their own paths to self-discovery.
How can one person’s transformation inspire and impact others? When we openly share our struggles and triumphs, we create a space for others to reflect on their own lives and consider the possibilities for change. Deckelbaum’s vulnerability and willingness to discuss his journey openly serve as an inspiration and catalyst for others to embark on their own paths of personal growth.
In his new role as a coach and mentor, Deckelbaum focuses on several key areas that he believes are crucial for personal development:
- Emotional intelligence
- Building and maintaining healthy relationships
- Overcoming limiting beliefs
- Addressing childhood traumas
- Cultivating self-awareness
- Setting and achieving meaningful goals
By sharing his experiences and insights in these areas, Deckelbaum helps others navigate their own challenges and work towards becoming their best selves.
Lessons Learned: Key Takeaways from Dan Deckelbaum’s Journey
Dan Deckelbaum’s transformative journey offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking personal growth and fulfillment. Here are some key takeaways from his experience:
- True happiness comes from within: External achievements and possessions may provide temporary satisfaction, but lasting happiness is an internal state that requires self-awareness and personal growth.
- Embrace vulnerability: Being open about our emotions and experiences is not a sign of weakness, but a source of strength and connection with others.
- Cultivate emotional intelligence: Developing the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions is crucial for personal and professional success.
- Prioritize self-awareness: Continual self-reflection and exploration are essential for personal growth and making meaningful changes in our lives.
- Redefine success: Shift focus from external markers of success to internal fulfillment and personal growth.
- Learn from setbacks: View challenges and failures as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
- Share your journey: By openly discussing our experiences and insights, we can inspire and help others on their own paths to self-discovery.
These lessons from Deckelbaum’s journey serve as a roadmap for anyone looking to embark on their own path of personal transformation and growth.
Applying Dan Deckelbaum’s Insights to Your Own Life
While every individual’s journey is unique, the principles and insights gained from Dan Deckelbaum’s experiences can be applied to various aspects of life. Here are some practical ways to incorporate these lessons into your own personal growth journey:
1. Practice Self-Reflection
Set aside time regularly for self-reflection. This can involve journaling, meditation, or simply quiet contemplation. Ask yourself questions like:
- What are my core values and beliefs?
- Am I living in alignment with these values?
- What patterns or behaviors do I notice in my life that may be holding me back?
- What areas of my life do I want to improve or change?
2. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence
Work on developing your emotional intelligence by:
- Practicing mindfulness to become more aware of your emotions
- Learning to identify and name your feelings
- Developing strategies to manage strong emotions effectively
- Practicing active listening and empathy in your relationships
3. Embrace Vulnerability
Challenge yourself to be more open and authentic in your relationships:
- Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends or family members
- Be honest about your struggles and challenges
- Ask for help or support when you need it
- Practice expressing gratitude and appreciation to others
4. Redefine Your Measures of Success
Take time to reassess what success means to you:
- Identify your personal values and prioritize them
- Set goals that align with your internal sense of purpose
- Celebrate small wins and personal growth milestones
- Focus on the journey of self-improvement rather than just the end results
5. Seek Continuous Learning and Growth
Commit to ongoing personal development:
- Read books on personal growth and self-improvement
- Attend workshops or seminars on topics that interest you
- Consider working with a therapist or life coach
- Engage in new experiences that challenge you and broaden your perspective
6. Give Back and Share Your Journey
Find ways to contribute to others and share your experiences:
- Mentor someone in your field or personal life
- Volunteer for causes that align with your values
- Share your story and insights through writing, speaking, or social media
- Offer support and encouragement to others on their own growth journeys
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can begin to apply the lessons learned from Dan Deckelbaum’s journey to your own personal growth and transformation. Remember that change is a process, and it takes time and consistent effort to see results. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each step forward on your journey to becoming your best self.
Expired Relationships Open Doors Instead of Close Them | The Catalyst for Change | by Dan Deckelbaum
4 min read
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Feb 1, 2019
I have no free time. I run three business, I split custody of my amazing 4 year old daughter. I’m writing a book. I’ve learned so much and I have so much knowledge to share. My passion is to coach, to lead, to help others grow and make an impact on the world as we each “just get better”. To coach others on happiness, self awareness, personal growth and help people on their journey to their best self. This is my purpose. I’m hopeful my story will resonate with others. I’ll post a couple times per week. This blog will be unfiltered, unedited and from the heart.
I was a normal guy, repressing my emotions, drinking, smoking weed at times (basically legal, right?), also a Realtor, lacrosse coach and player at the highest level, chasing the dream of a pro athlete. Key word, chasing. I was in a chasing state. Beautiful women, external happiness. Rewards, achievements, accomplishments that’s all I knew. I was a Realtor and a lacrosse coach so I sold a house — happiness, I made a pro team, happiness, won a game a district title, 2 state championships, happiness. All short lived. What’s next? Never content, nothing fulfilling, nothing long term. I met a woman I was passionately attracted to. I pursued her, won her heart, somehow got her to trust me even though I was undeserving of trust. We were passionately in love, we built a life, bigger homes, marriage on the beach. In my marriage vows I said you are my heart. This would come back to crush me — karma is a bitch as they say- I believe our words have power. My love, my power, my beating heart was now in the hands of another human. We brought an amazing little girl into the world, moved to our “forever home”. As one of my favorite influencers and coaches (The Angry Therapist) would say — I was a miserable fuck (Thanks Jon Kim).
I was like a dark cloud hanging over our lives. I worked a lot, my wife stopped working to raise our little girl. We should be happy. Except I didn’t even know how much I didn’t know. Higher vibrations, energy, positive mindset, subconscious mind, inner voice, intuition, self love, ha I’m fine, we’re good. I’m successful, we have the American dream, let’s drink wine, laugh, fuck, wake up, repeat. I didn’t or couldn’t listen / hear my wife who was very emotionally mature. Active listening is a skill I’ve learned, along with patience, communication and so many others. Happiness is a choice, love is a choice. Both grow by small things like consistent hard work = happiness to reach your goals. Or small loving actions to let the flower that is your romantic relationship grow. I didn’t water the flower, didn’t give love (except for physical), quality time, attention, didn’t connect. She was a beautiful woman, and difficult at times as life had hit her with her own traumas through childhood and experiences. She has her own issues to work through, but she tried and tried, until she couldn’t anymore. She left, deservedly so. I don’t blame her.
BOOM!! That was my catalyst for change. Maybe it was meant to be this way for me to resent myself at one point that I had no choice but to change. To regret and feel such a sense of loss that I couldn’t sleep. I’m a competitor, give me the fucking ball, no one can guard me, I’ll win the game. Except that’s not how it always works in life, in relationships, in love. I was meant to go on this inward journey of self awareness and personal growth. Maybe many men or people wouldn’t go this route. But that’s the path I choose. I’ve grown, matured, I’m a man, a leader, a coach, a role model, a father, and I’m vulnerable, I have needs and feelings and that’s what makes me strong. I will be my best self. When I’m old and dying if I imagine my best self I’ll be more like an identical twin than a complete stranger. I’ll travel, I’ll speak, I’ll coach and lead. I’ll spread the message I believe is my truth: emotional intelligence, relationships, subconscious limiting beliefs, childhood traumas, self awareness, personal growth, happiness, goals and hard work pays off if you’re true to yourself. I’ll look back and say thank you to my wife who I thought I’d spend all my days with and pictured still holding close when I was 85. Thank you for being my catalyst for change.
I choose to be grateful. I choose to be happy even if I’m lonely at times. I choose to make consistent small actions to manifest the life I desire. I’ve had my birth chart done — and learned about astrology, I’ve done a lot of therapy — and learned about psychology. I finally found a therapist I connect with and love seeing. I work with an awesome new life coach, who is an incredible story and building his own best life. JimmyDefalco.com check out Jimmy D radio — his story shows like so many in the world these days — adversity makes us stronger. I’ve mentored under an energy worker and spiritual healer for over a year — and learned about spirituality, meditation vibrations.
Now, I choose to attract things into my life rather than chase. I believe in source energy, all things are connected, that universe has my best interests at heart. If I can’t save my marriage it wasn’t meant to be saved. Maybe this will be the best thing that never happened to me.
That’s all for now but I challenge you- What are you doing to build your best self? Start small. What’s your morning routine? Can you read 10 pages or learn 1 thing each day? Who are you hanging out with? Are your goals the same now as they were a year ago? What small consistent actions can you take to make a positive impact on your life over time. Write them down and I’ll see you on the other side.
Deck
LASNAI Recap And Thanksgiving – Lacrosse All Stars
The second annual LaxAllStars.com North American Invitational (LASNAI) took place on the Onondaga Nation this past weekend, and 21 teams played a total of 63 box lacrosse games over three days. Each team played six shortened games (two per day), and by the end we had placed all 21 teams in order through tough playoff and consolation brackets.
Next year, we expand to 32 teams and two indoor locations on the Onondaga Nation, but spots are already being filled by interested teams, so don’t wait too long if you want to get in on this for 2018!!!!
Photo Credit: Ondrej Mike, LCC Radotin
(Remember, you can watch all the indoor games HERE!)
TBL – Repeat Champions
Thompson Brothers Elite took the title for the second year in a row, and maintained a perfect 12-0 record in the LASNAI, but their path was far from easy. While TBL beat four teams by 5 goals or more, the Young Guns gave them a great 12-8 game in their round robin game, and the Frog Pond Maulers almost knocked them off for the championship in the title game, eventually falling 10-9 to TBL.
TBL was loaded up with some of the best offensive talent in the world (and fresh new unreleased Nike turfs), and it showed all tournament long. However, the team lacked a real concentration of “defensive” players, with only Steve Priolo and Bill O’Brien truly fitting the mold. In goal, Troy Lyons (a natural lefty forward) stood tall for much of the tourney, while Hiana Thompson (another lefty forward) stepped back in between the pipes for the final game.
Hiana played goalie last year for TBL and seemed to struggle at times, but he was incredibly impressive in the final this year. I keep joking with Hinz that he’s going to switch positions eventually, and if he keeps making this kind of progress year after year, it really could happen! Do the Swarm need a goalie?
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All kidding aside, TBL not only put on a show on the floor, but they also put on a clinic off the floor on how to act like a professional and Grow The Game. TBL players hung out with other teams, watched other games, took photos with fans (and opponents), and talked lacrosse with anyone who wanted the conversation. They were open, approachable, and friendly. For a lot of the fans (and many of the players), this was a real treat to rub shoulders with some of the games best. Thanks to all the TBL guys for doing all they did, not only for the tourney, but also for the N7 TBL campers they hosted during the tourney.
That’s right, they played AND ran a camp for kids on the same day. Well done! That’s really what this is all about on many levels – the next generations to come.
New Contenders – Frog Pond Maulers
Danton Miller put together a truly impressive Frog Pond Maulers team, and these guys were only a goal away from taking the title this year. It didn’t matter if they were short a couple guys for earlier games, because they went out and won anyway on pure talent and savvy.
It didn’t matter that their goalie, Brennor Jacobs, hadn’t played lacrosse in 3 years, because he was unbelievable in net whenever he stepped in between the pipes. It didn’t matter that few thought Frog Pond would win it all, because Frog Pond thought they would, and to them, that was all that mattered. The Pond is back!
Austin Staats led the way for Frog Pond on offense and took home the MVP award for his efforts. With 16 goals and 13 assists, he led the tournament in points (29) and goals, while finishing third in assists. Not bad for a 19 year old!
Staats was far from the only offensive star for Frog Pond as Brendan Bomberry had 12 goals and 10 assists to finish 5th in scoring, while Kessler Doolittle had 16 points, and team captain Danton Miller notched an impressive 15 points of his own. On the other end of the floor, Tyson Bomberry and Jerry Staats were stand outs on D for the Maulers.
This team played loose, and with passion, and they almost took home the title. We can’t wait to see what Danton Miller comes up with for next year. The gauntlet has been thrown down, and Frog Pond’s first answer was impressive.
LASNAI All Tournament Team
We set ourselves a hard task with the all-tournament team at the LASNAI. Instead of following the trend of naming everyone and their mother to the team, we limit it to SIX all-tourney team players, ONE tourney MVP, and ONE sportsmanship winner. That’s it.
Only EIGHT players are named all tournament, there is no second team, there is no honorable mention. We want this to be an honor, and when you see the names below, you’ll agree – it’s not easy to make this list!
LASNAI MVP – Austin Staats – Frog Pond Maulers
Sportsmanship Award – Blaze Riorden – St. Lawrence River Wolverines
Forward – Kyle Buchanan – TBL
Forward – Tyler Brown – The Young Guns
Transition – Lyle Thompson – TBL
Transition – Marty Bowes – Casey Powell World Lacrosse Foundation
Defense – Cam Simpson – Onondaga Redhawks
Goalie – Mike Thompson – Syracuse Stingers
There were a ton of deserving players for this team, and we had to wrestle over 20+ players that truly stood out before making the final call. At the end of the day, we were looking for players who stood out AND made their teams better, and each and every one of the guys listed above did just that. These guys all had “woah” moments, and lots of them. Congrats to all on stellar tournament performances!
While we want to congratulate all of the players selected, I want to personally acknowledge Blaze Riorden for his play, AND for his actions, this past weekend. Blaze competes, wants to win, and plays hard, but he also keeps things in perspective, and more often than not he has a big smile on his face. When he shakes hands with an opponent after a game, he means it, and when his name was read off as the sportsmanship winner after the finals, the crowd erupted in a huge cheer, amongst the loudest of the entire night. Many thanks to Gabe Oakes for organizing the St. Lawrence River team for which Blaze played. As a team, they were a class act all weekend.
Thanks to Traditional Lacrosse for providing the all-star, MVP, and Sportsmanship awards, which all came in the form of wooden lacrosse sticks.
The Top Ten LASNAI Teams
You know how TBL and Frog Pond ended up, and I covered them above, so see below for some quick hitters on the next 8 teams, rounding out or Top Ten!
#3 – Onondaga Redhawks – The home side put together a tough and talented team and drew big crowds for their games. They lost to TBL 11-6 in the second semifinal, but won their other 5 games, including two one-goal wins. Onondaga got balanced scoring with six players scoring 7 points or more. McCoy Abrams led the way with 11 points, while Troy Benedict and Wade Bucktooth each had 10 apiece. Edmund Cathers was phenomenal in net. In 2016 OAC finished in 4th. This year they took 3rd. What happens next year?!?!?
#4 – Casey Powell World Lacrosse Foundation – The CPWLF team came together late as our last team to enter, and very few of the guys had played all that much together. Some hadn’t even played all that much box! Behind great goaltending from Derek Blasutti (and four assists!), scoring from Marty Bowes, Greg Melaugh, Matt Rakoczy, and Grant Whiteway, face offs from Billy Nguyen, and a great team defensive effort, CPWLF finished 4th. These guys had a great locker room dynamic, and it drove them to a top 4 finish. Inspiring stuff for a brand new team thrown together late!
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#5 – St. Lawrence River Wolverines – Blaze Riorden, Angus Langborne, Ky Tarbell, Ty Thompson, and Russ Oakes led the Wolverines in scoring, and this was a solid group from top to bottom, where FIVE different field players shared goalie responsibilities. Talk about a team effort! Ty Thompson, Chris George, Trey Adams, Sky Sunday, AND Colby Johnson all spent time in the goal. Amazing! This was a great group of guys, and we loved having them at the tourney for the first time in 2017! Gabe Oakes did a phenomenal job putting this group together.
#6 – Basom Bombers – Basom went 3-0, winning their group and their first round playoff game. In the quarters they played Onondaga, and dropped that game 6-4. They went on to beat the Stingers before losing to the Wolverines in the 5th place game. Kobe Whittcombe and Larson Sundown led the Bombers with 17 and 16 points respectively, but Jake Rice, Owen Hill, and Gates Abrams all had productive showings on offense as well. Wayne and Goah Abrams shared netminders duties, and both had save percentages over 70% when it was all said and done. Basom was another new team to the tourney, and very impressive!
#7 – Syracuse Stingers – The Stingers had amazing goaltending, and won their pool by a large margin. They won their first playoff game 5-3 over Blue Goose, but met up with the TBL buzzsaw in the next round, dropping a hard fought 9-4 game. Basom beat Syracuse 7-5 in their next game, but the Stingers rebounded with a 6-5 win in the 7th place game over the The Young Guns. The Stingers had incredibly balanced scoring with Neal Powless (11 points), Roger Vyse (10 points), Thomas Oakley (10 points), and Ty Hill (8 points) leading the way. Mike Thompson’s save percentage was at 90% by the end of the tourney. UNREAL! This is Syracuse’s second appearance in the LASNAI. They finished lower last year, and are trending up!
#8 – The Young Guns – TYG is likely sitting at home right a little disappointed, but they really shouldn’t be. This was the first time this team had EVER played together, and they did so with a really short bench. Some of the breaks didn’t go their way, but Tyler Brown put together this group of young stars, and they used their legs, skill, and savvy to contend. Losing 12-8 to TBL with only 12 guys is beyond impressive. I loved watching these guys play the game! Brown had 23 points and was an all tournament selection, while Vern Hill, Blaze White, and Ken Angus each notched 10 points or more. Cecil Jacobs was a lot of fun to watch in net, and has a bright future in between the pipes. We can’t wait to see the team The Young Guns bring back in 2018. This was a very impressive first outing for a brand new team!
#9 – LCC Radotin – LCC finished in the top ten, and this team is 100% Czech. I love it! This group lost 10-7 to Frog Pond in their round robin game, and then dropped a tough 4-3 game to Onondaga in the first round of the playoffs. It was an unlucky draw for LCC, as they had the talent to go deeper in the playoffs. Radotin rebounded with 3 straight wins to finish 4-2 and in 9th place. Dominik Pesek led the team in scoring and had a great tournament, while Matej Barak, Jiri Loskot, Thomas Prochazka, and Jiri Kostal each scored 10 points or more. LCC hosts another 21 team tournament of their own (the Ales Hrebesky Memorial) and we base our tourney structure off of their event, so it’s absolutely AMAZING to have them play in the LASNAI each year.
#10 – GoldStar Tel Aviv – As they do, GSTA brought in a mix of “box guys” and guys who want to learn box. Under great coaching, these guys always manage to come along and improve, and a 10th place finish for this group isn’t bad at all. Tel Aviv was actually really close to an even higher finish! After winning their group, Tel Aviv lost a heartbreaker, 5-4, to the CPWLF team. A win their puts them in the top 8, and it was only a goal away! GSTA won their next two games, before dropping one to LCC in the 9th place game. Dan Deckelbaum had 15 points to lead the way, while both Zach Pall and Adam Wolf hit double digits. In all, 12 players had 3 points or more for excellent scoring spread. Young Jerry Jensen was rock solid in net.
11-21 Placements
Here are how the teams finished up in spots 11 through 21.
#11 – Blue Goose LC
#12 – LaserSharks Blanco
#13 – Seneca Marksmen
#14 – LAS House Team
#15 – Rochester River Monsters
#16 – LaserSharks Neon
#17 – Caughnawaga Indians
#18 – Brooklyn Dodgers
#19 – Music City
#20 – Clevenland Demons
#21 – Courage Game House Team
A MOST SINCERE thank you to each and every one of these teams! Many could have finished higher than they did, and each came to compete, win games, and have fun. Sometimes the breaks don’t roll your way, but each and every one of these teams gave it their all, and it was an honor having them step onto the floor for our event!
The Big Thanksgiving!
On behalf of the LASNAI tournament and my partners, I want to sincerely thank EVERYONE for coming this year, and I also want to thank the Onondaga Nation and the Onondaga Athletic Club for once again allowing us to host our event on their sacred and sovereign soil. Nya:wenha. This means the world to us, and your friendship and support warms our hearts in what can be a cold, disjointed and modern age. Joining hands, we have been able to create a truly wonderful and unique box lacrosse experience. Thank you!!!!
Thanks to Oren Lyons for presenting the LASNAI championship trophy again this year, and for encouraging our tournament to grow and improve. Your support, and the support of the Onondaga Nation, is very much appreciated and recognized. We count ourselves as very fortunate to have your friendship.
I want to personally thank Scott Neiss, Brad Cronin, and David Reed for helping to organize the LASNAI with me again, and to ensure it ran smoothly. All of these men put in incredible hours organizing, working the door, putting out fires, and running the show. Incredible stuff all around.
We are also very fortunate to have an amazing (and much larger) staff working on this event, and without these selfless, dedicated people, none of this could happen.
Thank you to our stats crew (led by Shirely Hill, Rob Benson, and Gail Dempsey with SO MANY OTHERS HELPING!) for doing an unreal job all day, for 3 straight days! Thanks to Oliver Hill for showing up on Day 1 and volunteering with our stats crew, and taking care of rosters. It was a HUGE help and very much appreciated on all counts! You were all fantastic and made the event that much better.
Thank you to our announcers and box crews (led by Mike Brandt and Stephen Stamp) for keeping everyone informed and engaged! I lost my voice, but these pros kept going strong!
Thank you to the LAS crew (led by Mark Donahue, Brian Witmer, Ryan Conwell, and Jeff Brunelle) for the million big and little things you all did all weekend! UNREAL working with you all to make this happen.
Thank you to our video guy (John Galvin) for your monumental work rate this weekend and amazing video quality! You are the man!
A HUGE thank you to the arena staff (led by Ed Shenandoah) and to the security staff, our medial staff, our water boys, and all of the other local volunteers and workers. The locker rooms were spotless, the glass was always clean, the doors were always secure, and you all went above and beyond whenever asked (sometimes when you weren’t even asked!). I got nothing but smiles and friendship from arena and security staff, and have only positive thoughts when I think of someone in a neon yellow T-shirt. Many thanks to the legendary Travis Cook for working the door ALL tourney long! THANK YOU ALL!!!
Many thanks to our massage therapist, trainers, and overall body helpers. It was a last minute addition, and a great one! Next year, we want you back. Our backs have requested it!
Thanks to our referees! Each of them oversaw a ton of action and we can not play this great game without you!!!
Another HUGE thanks to our many wonderful vendors and sponsors – NIKE, UnCommon Fit, The Courage Game, Burd Wood Works, Adoch Shenandoah, Jack Johnson/Tama Lacrosse, WoodLacrosseSticks. com, and Traditional Lacrosse were all fantastic on site vendors and sponsors! Thanks to Throne Lacrosse and Sisu Mouthguards for their partnerships as well, and thanks to the Tewaaraton Award, Onondaga Athletic Club, Sticks for Kids, and the CPWLF for coming out and supporting our event. Thanks to BarStoolJordie, Throne, and College Crosse for coming out to get media! Thanks to Syracuse.com, and Cuse.com, and all the others who provided info about this event!
Thank you to TBL for running their camp (Bill O’Brien and crew!), thanks to Carrier Dome for the Sunday games, and thanks to Israel, Albany, and the Iroquois for playing great games in the Dome! Thanks to the the Wood Stick Festival (Phil Arnold and the IVI) for hosting their event on the same weekend as our tournament, and thanks to all for being partners in this whole #LaxWeekend17 event!
At the end of the day I want to THANK YOU, (yes, YOU!) sincerely, and from the bottom of my heart. Whether you were at the LASNAI playing, coaching, or as a fan, whether you were watching from home, or following along on social media… THANK YOU.