Who are the greatest male lacrosse players in history. What achievements set them apart from their peers. How did these athletes revolutionize the game of lacrosse. Which players have left an indelible mark on the sport’s legacy.
Jim Brown: The Multi-Sport Phenomenon
Jim Brown stands as a towering figure in the annals of lacrosse history, despite his equally impressive career in football. His dominance on the lacrosse field was so profound that it often overshadowed his gridiron accomplishments. Brown’s impact on lacrosse during his time at Syracuse University was nothing short of revolutionary.
What made Jim Brown such an exceptional lacrosse player? His combination of speed, strength, and agility allowed him to dominate the field in ways rarely seen before or since. In his senior year alone, Brown scored an astounding 43 goals in just 10 games, making him the second-highest scorer nationally.
- 1983 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
- 1957 NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 2014 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award
- Namesake of PLL MVP Trophy
Brown’s influence extended far beyond his playing days. His prowess helped popularize lacrosse in the 1950s, attracting new fans and players to the sport. The Premier Lacrosse League’s decision to name their MVP trophy after Brown speaks volumes about his lasting legacy in the sport.
Gary Gait: The Innovator Who Redefined Lacrosse
Gary Gait’s impact on lacrosse is difficult to overstate. Born in Victoria, Canada, Gait would go on to become one of the most iconic figures in the sport’s history. His time at Syracuse University was marked by unprecedented success and innovation that would change the face of lacrosse forever.
How did Gary Gait revolutionize lacrosse? He introduced a level of creativity and flair previously unseen in the sport. Gait’s signature move, the “Air Gait,” involved jumping from behind the crease, shooting the ball, and landing on the other side. This acrobatic maneuver captivated fans and inspired a new generation of players to push the boundaries of what was possible on the lacrosse field.
- Three-time NCAA DI national champion
- Two-time NCAA DI Player of the Year
- Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- Six-time NLL MVP
- 2005 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
- 2014 Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Gait’s professional career was equally impressive, setting numerous scoring records in the National Lacrosse League and winning the league’s MVP award a record six times. His influence extended beyond his playing days, as he went on to coach both men’s and women’s teams at Syracuse University and played a crucial role in developing the Gait Lacrosse brand of equipment.
Mikey Powell: The Heir to Lacrosse Royalty
Mikey Powell emerged as a lacrosse prodigy, following in the footsteps of his older brothers Casey and Ryan. His time at Syracuse University from 2001 to 2004 was nothing short of spectacular, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.
What set Mikey Powell apart from his contemporaries? His unparalleled creativity on the field and ability to make plays that seemed impossible. Powell’s style of play was often described as “freeform,” blending elements of box and field lacrosse to create a unique and highly effective approach to the game.
- Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- Two-time Tewaaraton Trophy winner (2002, 2004)
- Four-time NCAA DI Final Four appearances
- 2001 NCAA DI national champion
- 2017 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Powell’s impact on lacrosse extended beyond his statistical achievements. His flashy style of play and magnetic personality helped attract new fans to the sport, particularly among younger generations. Even after retiring from professional lacrosse, Powell’s influence continues to be felt through his music career and involvement in growing the game at grassroots levels.
John Grant Jr.: The Canadian Lacrosse Icon
John Grant Jr. stands as one of the most versatile and accomplished players in lacrosse history. His ability to excel in both box and field lacrosse set him apart from many of his peers, making him a true icon of the sport in Canada and beyond.
How did John Grant Jr. become such a dominant force in lacrosse? His exceptional stick skills, combined with his size and strength, made him nearly impossible to defend against. Grant’s vision on the field and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates were unparalleled.
- 1999 NCAA DI Player of the Year
- Two-time MLL MVP (2007, 2008)
- NLL MVP (2012)
- Nine-time NLL All-Pro
- 2016 Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
- 2021 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Grant’s impact on lacrosse extended far beyond his individual accolades. He played a crucial role in popularizing box lacrosse in the United States and helped bridge the gap between the Canadian and American lacrosse communities. His coaching career has allowed him to pass on his knowledge and passion for the game to future generations of players.
Paul Rabil: The Face of Modern Lacrosse
Paul Rabil emerged as one of the most recognizable figures in lacrosse during the sport’s rapid growth in the 21st century. His combination of on-field excellence and off-field entrepreneurship has made him a transformative figure in the world of lacrosse.
What makes Paul Rabil such an influential figure in modern lacrosse? Beyond his impressive physical attributes and skill set, Rabil’s business acumen and marketing savvy have helped elevate the sport’s profile. His co-founding of the Premier Lacrosse League in 2018 marked a new era for professional lacrosse in North America.
- Two-time NCAA DI national champion (2005, 2007)
- Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- Two-time MLL MVP (2009, 2011)
- MLL All-Time Points and Goals Leader
- Co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League
Rabil’s impact on lacrosse extends far beyond his playing career. His social media presence and business ventures have helped introduce the sport to new audiences and create opportunities for professional players. The Premier Lacrosse League’s success has set a new standard for how lacrosse is presented and consumed by fans.
Casey Powell: The Versatile Virtuoso
Casey Powell, the eldest of the famous Powell brothers, left an indelible mark on lacrosse through his exceptional skills and versatility. His ability to excel in multiple positions and adapt his game made him one of the most complete players in the sport’s history.
How did Casey Powell’s versatility contribute to his success? His understanding of the game allowed him to seamlessly transition between attack and midfield positions, making him a constant threat on the field. Powell’s lacrosse IQ and ability to read the game set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
- Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 1998 NCAA DI Player of the Year
- 2014 FIL World Lacrosse Championship MVP
- MLL All-Time Assists Leader
- 2017 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Powell’s impact on lacrosse extended beyond his playing career. His work in growing the game, particularly in non-traditional lacrosse areas, has helped expand the sport’s reach. His coaching and mentoring efforts have inspired countless young players to pursue their lacrosse dreams.
Lyle Thompson: The Native American Trailblazer
Lyle Thompson emerged as one of the most exciting and influential players in lacrosse history during his time at the University at Albany. His Native American heritage and connection to the sport’s roots have made him a powerful ambassador for lacrosse.
What makes Lyle Thompson’s style of play so unique? His exceptional vision, creativity, and ability to make his teammates better set him apart from his peers. Thompson’s understanding of the game’s spiritual and cultural significance to Native American communities adds depth to his approach to lacrosse.
- Two-time Tewaaraton Trophy winner (2014, 2015)
- NCAA DI all-time points leader
- Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 2017 FIL World Lacrosse Championship All-World Team
- PLL All-Star and Attacking Player of the Year (2019)
Thompson’s impact on lacrosse extends far beyond his statistical achievements. He has become a role model for Native American youth and a vocal advocate for preserving the sport’s indigenous roots. His efforts to bridge the gap between traditional and modern lacrosse have enriched the sport’s culture and community.
Rob Pannell: The Record-Breaking Attackman
Rob Pannell’s career at Cornell University and in professional lacrosse has been marked by consistent excellence and numerous records. His precise skills and lacrosse IQ have made him one of the most formidable attackmen in the sport’s history.
How did Rob Pannell become such a prolific scorer and playmaker? His exceptional stick skills, combined with his ability to read defenses and create opportunities for himself and his teammates, made him a constant threat on the field. Pannell’s work ethic and dedication to improving his game have been key factors in his success.
- 2013 Tewaaraton Trophy winner
- NCAA DI all-time points leader (until surpassed by Lyle Thompson)
- Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 2018 FIL World Lacrosse Championship MVP
- MLL Rookie of the Year (2013) and MVP (2018)
Pannell’s impact on lacrosse extends beyond his individual achievements. His technical proficiency and understanding of the game have made him a sought-after coach and clinician. His commitment to growing the sport globally has helped expand lacrosse’s reach to new audiences and regions.
Tom Marechek: The Canadian Scoring Machine
Tom Marechek’s career in both field and box lacrosse established him as one of the most prolific scorers in the sport’s history. His unique style and flair on the field made him a fan favorite and inspired a generation of players.
What made Tom Marechek such an effective scorer? His exceptional stick skills, particularly his ability to shoot accurately from various angles and positions, made him a nightmare for defenders. Marechek’s creativity and willingness to attempt unconventional shots added an element of unpredictability to his game.
- Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 1992 NCAA DI national champion
- Four-time NLL All-Pro
- 2001 NLL MVP
- 2004 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Marechek’s impact on lacrosse extended beyond his playing career. His innovative shooting techniques and creative playstyle influenced how the game was played and coached. His success helped pave the way for more Canadian players to make their mark in American collegiate and professional lacrosse.
Kyle Harrison: The Midfield Maestro
Kyle Harrison’s career at Johns Hopkins University and in professional lacrosse established him as one of the most dynamic midfielders in the sport’s history. His athleticism, skill, and leadership on and off the field have made him a respected figure in the lacrosse community.
How did Kyle Harrison become such an influential midfielder? His combination of speed, agility, and lacrosse IQ allowed him to dominate on both ends of the field. Harrison’s ability to contribute in all aspects of the game – scoring, assisting, faceoffs, and defense – made him a complete player.
- 2005 Tewaaraton Trophy winner
- Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 2005 NCAA DI national champion
- 2008 FIL World Lacrosse Championship All-World Team
- Co-founder of Charm City Youth Lacrosse
Harrison’s impact on lacrosse extends far beyond his on-field achievements. He has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sport, working to create opportunities for underrepresented communities to access lacrosse. His involvement in youth lacrosse initiatives and equipment companies has helped grow the game at grassroots levels.
Honorable Mentions
While the top 10 list showcases some of the greatest players in men’s lacrosse history, there are many other exceptional athletes who have made significant contributions to the sport. Some notable honorable mentions include:
- Frank Urso: Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American and three-time national champion with Maryland
- Matt Danowski: NCAA DI all-time points leader before being surpassed by Pannell and Thompson
- Eamon McEneaney: Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American and two-time national champion with Cornell
- Mark Millon: Two-time World Lacrosse Championship MVP and prolific scorer in professional leagues
- Scott Rodgers: Dominant goalie who led Notre Dame to the 2010 NCAA championship game
These players, along with countless others, have helped shape the landscape of men’s lacrosse and contribute to its growing popularity and evolution as a sport.
The Evolution of Men’s Lacrosse
The sport of men’s lacrosse has undergone significant changes since its Native American origins. How has the game evolved over time? The introduction of new technologies in stick and equipment design has allowed for increased shot speeds and more precise ball control. Rule changes, such as the shot clock in college lacrosse, have aimed to make the game more fast-paced and exciting for spectators.
The players featured in this list have all played crucial roles in shaping the modern game of lacrosse. Their innovations, athleticism, and dedication to the sport have pushed its boundaries and inspired new generations of players to take up the stick.
The Future of Men’s Lacrosse
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, what does the future hold for the sport? The emergence of professional leagues like the Premier Lacrosse League and the continued expansion of college programs suggest a bright future for men’s lacrosse. The sport’s potential inclusion in future Olympic Games could further boost its global profile.
The next generation of lacrosse stars will likely build upon the legacies of the players featured in this list, pushing the sport to new heights of athleticism, skill, and popularity. As lacrosse continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see which players emerge as the legends of tomorrow.
Top 10 Best Men’s Lacrosse Players Of All Time
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Lacrosse is an extremely popular sport at the youth, college, and professional levels, and many major male athletes have had a considerable impact on the sport throughout its history. With that in mind, who are the top 10 ranked men’s lacrosse players of all time? Read on to learn about these famous athletes.
Table of Contents
- Who Are the Best Men’s Lacrosse Players of All Time?
- 1. Jim Brown
- 2. Gary Gait
- 3. Mikey Powell
- 4. John Grant Jr.
- 5. Paul Rabil
- 6. Casey Powell
- 7. Lyle Thompson
- 8. Rob Pannell
- 9. Tom Marecheck
- 10. Kyle Harrison
- Honorable Mentions
- FAQ
Who Are the Best Men’s Lacrosse Players of All Time?
- Jim Brown
- Gary Gait
- Mikey Powell
- John Grant Jr.
- Paul Rabil
- Casey Powell
- Lyle Thompson
- Rob Pannell
- Tom Marecheck
- Kyle Harrison
1.
Jim Brown
- 1983 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
- 1957 NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- 2014 Muhammed Ali Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award
- Namesake of PLL MVP Trophy
At times, Jim Brown’s excellence in lacrosse is overshadowed by his impressive accomplishments in football. Brown was one of the most exceptional athletes of his time, and his greatness is recognized across multiple sports. Although Brown went on to play professional football in the National Football League, many believe he was even better at lacrosse than football. In fact, he once said, “I’d rather play lacrosse six days a week and football on the seventh.”
Along with his numerous accolades in lacrosse and football, Brown was also a star basketball player and track star during his time at Syracuse University, where he graduated in 1957. Brown was so dominant on the lacrosse field that he takes the top spot on this list solely based on his success in collegiate lacrosse.
In his junior season, Brown was a Second-Team All-American in lacrosse, followed by a First-Team selection his senior year. Brown scored 43 goals in only 10 games for Syracuse as a senior, making him the second highest scorer nationally. The Premier Lacrosse League, founded in 2019, even gave Brown the honor of naming their MVP trophy after him. He was inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1983, and many credit his prowess on the lacrosse field with helping the sport’s popularity grow significantly in the 1950s. Brown’s impact on the game of lacrosse is undeniable, and many recognize him as the sport’s most influential figure to this day.
2. Gary Gait
- Three-time NCAA DI national champion
- Two-time NCAA DI Player of the Year
- Three-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- Six-time NLL MVP
- 2005 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
- 2014 Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Gary Gait was born in Victoria, Canada, and, like Jim Brown, would go on to attend college at Syracuse University, becoming one of the most iconic names in lacrosse worldwide.
He helped to revolutionize how many people saw the game of lacrosse through his use of unique and flashy moves, such as behind-the-back passes, as well as his most notable move, the “Air Gait,” which was an acrobatic attempt to score that involved jumping from behind the crease and landing on the other side after shooting the ball. “Air Gait” became a common phrase in the sport of lacrosse, although the move itself was later outlawed in the NCAA.
During his collegiate career, Gait was a seemingly unstoppable force. He was a four-time All-American, earning an honorable mention in his freshman year, followed by first-team honors each year after. Gait also helped lead Syracuse to three National Championships during his time at the school, a tough feat that many other lacrosse legends have been unable to accomplish since then. Gait earned the NCAA’s Player of the Year in both 1988 and 1990, along with the Most Outstanding Player in the 1990 NCAA tournament. He graduated as Syracuse University’s leading scorer and went on to have an equally impressive professional career.
Gait set numerous scoring records in the National Lacrosse League. He won the league’s MVP award a record six times, five of those times being consecutive! In Major League Lacrosse, Gait spent significantly less time on the playing field. However, this didn’t stop him from winning numerous awards, including MLL MVP, MLL All-Star game MVP, and MLL Championship game MVP. Following his extremely impressive collegiate and professional careers, Gait was quickly welcomed into the US and Canadian Lacrosse Halls of Fame. He would continue his legacy by coaching both the men’s and women’s teams at his alma mater. He was also fundamental in the development of the Gait Lacrosse brand (along with his brother Paul), which manufactures various equipment for the sport. With one of the most iconic names in lacrosse to this day and a seemingly never-ending list of awards and records, Gait has easily earned the second spot on this list.
3. Mikey Powell
- Two-time NCAA DI national champion
- Four-time NCAA DI First-Team All-American
- Four-time Jack Turnbull Award winner
- Two-time Tewaaraton Award winner
- 2004 Lt.
Raymond Enners Award winner
Raymond Enners Award winnerMikey Powell is arguably the greatest attackman to ever play collegiate lacrosse. His impact from the attack position was undeniable as he led his alma mater, Syracuse University, to two NCAA National Championships during his time there from 2001-2004. He also holds the school’s record for most career points. Mikey Powell had a hard legacy to live up to, considering his older brothers Casey and Ryan graced the field for Syracuse in the years before him. Despite his brothers’ many successes, most consider Mikey to be the best of the three Powells.
Mikey Powell received NCAA First-Team All-American honors in each of his four seasons. He was also recognized as the NCAA’s best attackman by winning the Jack Turnbull Award every single season. Powell broke numerous records during his collegiate career (many held by his own brothers) and sat at 6th in NCAA career points and 13th in career assists upon his graduation.
As a huge surprise to most of the lacrosse community, Powell elected not to immediately play professional lacrosse after his graduation and instead pursued a music career.
In 2005, Powell joined Major League Lacrosse by playing alongside fellow Syracuse lacrosse legend Gary Gait on the Baltimore Bayhawks. He also won the MLL All-Star Game MVP award during that season. While his professional career was not very lengthy, Powell contributed significantly to the United States Lacrosse World Championship run in 2006 and was selected to the All-World team.
4. John Grant Jr.
- 1999 Jack Turnbull Award winner
- 1999 USILA National Collegiate Player of the Year
- Three-time NLL MVP
- Two-time MLL MVP
- Three-time MLL Offensive Player of the Year
John Grant Jr. did not have the typical collegiate career of most athletes on this list. Collegiate lacrosse is perhaps even more popular than professional lacrosse in the eyes of many lacrosse fans. Therefore, Grant’s place on this list, despite his unusual path in collegiate lacrosse, is not to be taken lightly. Grant Jr. spent time in the OLA (Ontario Lacrosse Association) Junior A division prior to his time in college.
In fact, he was drafted into the NLL in 1995, but he elected to attend school at SUNY Morrisville instead. Grant Jr. spent two years at SUNY Morrisville, then transferred to the University of Delaware, where he began to receive the recognition he deserved. At the University of Delaware, Grant Jr. was a two-time All-American in his final two seasons. In his senior year, he earned the Jack Turnbull Award and USILA National Collegiate Player of the Year in 1999. John Grant Jr. set nearly every lacrosse record at both SUNY Morrisville and the University of Delaware. Additionally, his 110-point senior season remains 10th in all-time NCAA single-season points for the sport.
Grant Jr.’s list of professional awards seems to be endless, as he is one of the most decorated players at the professional level of the sport. His excellence has been recognized by every league he played in, including the NLL, MLL, MSL, OLA, and international play as well. When Grant Jr. returned to the NLL in 1999, he was the #1 overall pick and would go on to win the NLL Rookie of the Year Award in that same season.
In both 2007 and 2008, he won MLL Offensive Player of the Year and League MVP. Grant Jr. briefly retired in 2017 but soon returned to the MLL in 2019 at the age of 44, making him the oldest player to ever play in the league. In his first game back from retirement, Grant Jr. surpassed Paul Rabil as Major League Lacrosse’s all-time leading scorer.
5. Paul Rabil
- Two-time NCAA DI national champion
- Three-time NCAA DI All-American
- Two-time MLL MVP
- Three-time MLL Offensive Player of the Year
- 2014 World Lacrosse Championship winner
Like many on this list, Paul Rabil helped popularize the game of lacrosse and led it through yet another evolutionary phase. To many younger players, Rabil’s name is synonymous with success in the lacrosse world. Paul Rabil played his collegiate career at Johns Hopkins University, where he won two national championships and received All-American honors three times. Following his time in college, the professional lacrosse environment is where Rabil became a household name for many lacrosse fans.
Rabil was the number-one overall pick in the 2008 MLL draft and was also selected to the league’s All-Star game in his first season. In 2009 and 2011, Rabil won both the MLL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year. He continued to shine throughout his career in the MLL and NLL, earning almost too many awards to name, including multiple All-Pro selections. At one point, Rabil even held the world record for the fastest lacrosse shot at 111 mph.
Rabil has secured various sponsorship deals throughout his career. These include deals with Red Bull, Warrior Sports (New Balance), Polk Audio, and numerous other companies. He also went on to co-found the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) in 2019, along with the help of his brother. Rabil’s concept behind the PLL was to provide a competitive and entertaining professional lacrosse league that could actually support players as their full-time job. Whether it be his contribution on the field or off the field, Paul Rabil is always mentioned alongside some of lacrosse’s greatest players.
6. Casey Powell
- 1995 NCAA DI national champion
- Four-time USILA All-American
- Two-time NCAA DI Most Outstanding Player
- 2017 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Known as one of the greatest all-around attackmen of his time, 2017 National Lacrosse Hall of Famer Casey Powell is the only male lacrosse player with a 60-point season in two different decades. First debuting professionally with the Long Island Lizards, Powell became an expert offensive player, helping his team capture Major League Lacrosse’s first-ever championship in 2001.
At Syracuse University, Powell was a powerhouse, winning All-American all four years, becoming an NCAA all-tournament team member, breaking Syracuse’s record for most assists in an NCAA game, and a college career total of 278 points. Currently, Casey Powell ranks fourth all-time among players with an average of at least two goals and two assists per game, a top-four list that also includes his younger brother, Ryan.
In his career, Powell amassed a total of 523 points, a worthy number for his position as one of our honorable mentions.
7. Lyle Thompson
- Two-time Tewaaraton Award winner
- First all-time in NCAA DI single-season points (400)
- Second all-time in NCAA DI career assists (225)
- 2019 MLL champion
- 2019 MLL MVP
A two-time Tewaaraton Award winner, Lyle Thompson is yet another attackman who belongs on our honorable mentions list. With a total of 400 points across his career at the University of Albany, Thompson clearly has the chops as a lacrosse player.
Thompson is a member of the Iroquois Nation and has racked up a number of notable accolades across all levels of his lacrosse career. He was first in single-season points for NCAA Division I lacrosse in 2014, second all-time for career assists in the NCAA, and his 400 college points place him first in career points among all Division I NCAA lacrosse players.
8.
Rob Pannell
- Fourth all-time in NCAA DI career points (354)
- 2013 Tewaaraton Trophy winner
- Three-time Ivy League Player of the Year
- 2018 MLL MVP
- Two-time MLL Offensive Player of the Year
Hailing from Smithtown, New York, Rob Pannell won the 2013 Tewaaraton Trophy while playing lacrosse for Cornell University and was also the 2011 ESPY nominee for Best Collegiate Athlete. A winner of First-Team All-American and All-Ivy honors, Pannell currently plays for the Redwoods Lacrosse Club and was the third overall selection in the 2020 PLL Entry Draft.
In 2018, Pannell was first overall in single-season points among all Major League Lacrosse players. He was also 13th in NCAA Division I single-season points in 2013, fifth all-time in NCAA career assists, and fourth all-time in NCAA points. In his time at Cornell University, he successfully completed 204 assists and 354 points.
9. Tom Marecheck
- Two-time NCAA D1 champion
- Four-time All-American
- 1991 NCAA D1 goals leader (53)
- 2007 NLL Hall of Fame inductee
- 2008 NCAA Hall of Fame inductee
- 2008 US Lacrosse Hall of Fame inductee
Tom Marecheck was known for his scoring ability while at Syracuse and with the Philadelphia Wings in the NLL.
He grew up in Victoria, British Columbia, and joined Paul and Gary Gait on the team at Syracuse, forming one of the greatest offensive squads in college history. They won back-to-back national championships in 1989 and 1990, with Marechek being selected All-American in each of his four years. Today, he ranks fifth all-time among college goal scorers, with 182 to his name.
After college, Marecheck played 12 successful seasons with the NLL’s Philadelphia Wings. He was selected the NLL Rookie of the Year in 1994, and when he retired, the Wings hung his number-42 jersey in the rafters. He also played seven seasons with the Baltimore/Washington Bayhawks in the outdoor MLL. Marecheck has been inducted into the NCAA Hall of Fame, the US Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the NLL Hall of Fame. Today, he remains active in the sport, coaching club lacrosse in Maryland and directing a series of All Pro Lacrosse Club training camps.
10. Kyle Harrison
- Seven-time MLL and two-time PLL All-Star
- 2017 MLL Champion
- Two-time PLL Brendan Looney Leadership Award wINNER
- 2005 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Champion
- Two-time World Lacrosse Championship Runner-Up
Kyle Harrison’s athletic career began in high school, where he was a tri-sport athlete who played basketball, soccer, and lacrosse.
After graduating, he attended Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, after being recruited for their Division I Lacrosse team. While at Johns Hopkins, Harrison was a three-time All-American athlete, a two-time McLaughlin Award National Midfielder of the Year, and was also named the 2005 Tewaaraton Award National Player of the Year. His college career culminated in winning the 2005 NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Championship.
After college, Harrison was drafted first overall by the MLL’s New Jersey Pride. Across his 17-year career, Harrison played for the Pride and the MLL’s Los Angeles Riptide, Denver Outlaws, and Ohio Machine, as well as for the PLL’s Redwoods L.C. Throughout his MLL career, Harrison scored 133 goals across 106 games played for his four teams. While a member of the 2017 Ohio Machine, Harrison won the MLL Championship. As a PLL player for the Redwoods, he scored 11 goals across 29 games and three seasons. In addition to these accolades, Harrison was runner-up twice at the World Lacrosse Championship, in 2006 and 2014.
Harrison retired in 2021, but he is still active in lacrosse, being one of the founders of the Black Lacrosse Alliance, an organization which aims to promote inclusivity in the sport.
Honorable Mentions
Here is a list of other great lacrosse players:
- Brodie Merrill
- Chris Gray
- Colin Doyle
- Dave Pietramala
- Gavin Prout
- Jason Coffman
- Jack Bionda
- Jim Thorpe
- Jimmy Lewis
- John Grant Sr.
- Matt Danowski
- Matt Striebel
- Michael Sowers
- Oren Lyons
- Paul Gait
- Shawn Williams
- Tracey Kelusky
FAQ
Who is the greatest men’s lacrosse player of all time?
The greatest men’s lacrosse player of all time is arguably Jim Brown. Though Brown never played professional lacrosse (he chose professional football in the NFL instead), his accomplishments as a college lacrosse player for Syracuse University were so impressive that he is still considered one of the best lacrosse players of all time.
In particular, Brown is known for scoring 43 goals for Syracuse over a 10-game period. Brown’s accomplishments led the Premier Lacrosse League to name their MVP Trophy after him, and he was inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1983.
Which men’s lacrosse player has scored the most goals in NCAA lacrosse?
Penn State men’s lacrosse player Mac O’Keefe holds the current record for the most goals scored in NCAA lacrosse history. In April of 2021, O’Keefe made history by scoring his 213th NCAA goal. This goal set the Division I record for lacrosse goals and surpassed the previous record of 212 goals, which was earned by Justin Guterding of Duke University.
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25 High School Boys’ Lacrosse Players to Watch in 2023
PHOTO BY JOHN STROHSACKER
McCabe Millon (McDonogh) is the top senior in the country according to Inside Lacrosse.
Thu Mar 23 2023 | USA Lacrosse Magazine Staff | High School
High School Boys
Take a look at 25 of the top high school boys’ lacrosse players to watch in 2023. Organized by region, we highlight five players each from the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, South, Midwest and West. The players are listed alphabetically by last name.
NORTHEAST
Owen Duffy, St. Anthony’s (N.Y.), A, Sr.
Duffy went against the mold, heading down Tobacco Road from former Friars Brennan O’Neill and Andrew McAdorey to play for North Carolina. And while those ACC showdowns should be terrific, St. Anthony’s coach Keith Wieczorek is happy to have the throwback, do-it-all attackman back for another year. A rare junior captain a year ago, Duffy, ranked No. 4 in the Class of 2023 by Inside Lacrosse, can feed from X, he can finish and he can carry.
Cal Girard, Manhasset (N.Y.), FO, Sr.
There’s just two returning USA Lacrosse All-Americans on Long Island this spring and the area’s top faceoff guy, who helped guide Manhasset to the New York State Class C title a year ago, is one of them.
The Duke-bound senior is a four-year starter who is called an “animal at the faceoff” by Manhasset head coach Keith Cromwell. Girard has that combination of strength and speed, which means he rarely loses a clamp and can immediately create quick offense with his ability to push transition.
Leo Hoffman, Brunswick (Conn.), M, Sr.
On a loaded team of future high-major Division I players, Leo Hoffman is the alpha male. The Penn-bound senior, ranked No. 2 in the Class of 2023 by Inside Lacrosse, was a USA Lacrosse All-American as a junior.
“He is constantly in a triple threat position, ready to dodge, shoot or feed,” Brunswick School coach David Bruce said. “His first step is also quicker than most others on the field, which forces his defenders to play on their heels.”
Matt Jeffery, Cheshire (Conn.), M, Jr.
Yes, they play lacrosse outside of Fairfield County in Connecticut and Jeffrey is proof elite lax can also be found in New Haven County.
A three-sport star at Cheshire, the USA Lacrosse All-American is ranked No. 2 in the Class of 2024 by Inside Lacrosse, thanks in part to an obscene 115-point sophomore season. The quarterback of the school’s football team and a basketball guard, the lefty midfielder, who verbally committed to Notre Dame, is a freak athlete who is a constant scoring threat.
Hunter Spiess, Brunswick (Conn.), D, Sr.
Looking for a lockdown defender who rarely has a misstep? Spiess is your guy. The Princeton-bound senior is a chameleon with a long pole, able to adjust to whatever type of attackman is trying to take him on. He’s just as good off-ball as the quarterback of Brunswick School’s defense.
“Fast, strong and a hockey guy, he’s really dangerous off the ground and is confident on the offensive side of the field,” Bruce said. “This is all while covering the opponent’s No. 1 attackman.”
— Dylan Butler
MID-ATLANTIC
Mac Christmas, McDonogh (Md.
), LSM, Sr.
Christmas has been a noticeable standout throughout his scholastic career. The 6-foot-4 LSM is on a new team for his final year of high school before heading to Duke. Christmas brings the valuable tools of being able to guard, cause turnovers, and win the ball on the ground at the highest level.
Ryan Duenkel, St. John’s (D.C.), A, Jr.
The versatile attacker isn’t big, but he’s active and can help the offense from a variety of spots. The No. 1 ranked junior in the country was a force as a sophomore for the nation’s best team, and he is expected to help the Cadets weather some of their graduation losses.
Caleb Fyock, St. John’s (Md.), G, Sr.
An exceptional stopper at the other end of the field for St. John’s, Fyock has soft hands and doesn’t give up rebounds. The Ohio State commit comes up with the routine and is good for a few big saves. He make plays outside the cage, and once he has secured the ball he quickly and accurately distributes it.
Nate Kabiri, Georgetown Prep (Md.), A, Sr.
A pure shooter, Kabiri is Georgetown’s top scoring threat. He has a quick release and ability to vary the angle well, and he uses a great change of direction to get his hands free. The Princeton commit also has shown an ability to create shots for teammates.
McCabe Millon, McDonogh (Md.), A, Sr.
Millon has developed into a dynamic dodger who attacks the goal aggressively and can finish with either hand. His versatility allows McDonogh to use him any number of ways, and the No. 1 senior in the country is poised to lead the Eagles in his final year before joining Virginia.
— Justin Feil
SOUTH
Sean Browne, Episcopal School of Dallas (Texas), A, Jr.
Sean Browne returns for his junior year after a 54-goal, 40-assist 2022.The Virginia commit, who is widely considered one of the few five-star recruits in the region, is called the QB of his team’s offense by coach Jay Sothoron.
He carries over strong athleticism from the basketball court and uses that ability to dodge defenses.
Jordan Faison, Pine Crest (Fla.), M, Sr.
Jordan Faison is widely considered one of the top two-sport athletes in the country. He was Pine Crest’s leading scorer a year ago with 43 goals. He is committed to Notre Dame, where it appears he will play both football and lacrosse.
Beckett Foley, Dallas Jesuit (Texas), M, Jr.
With fellow scorer McAllister Hobbs in the college ranks, Beckett Foley appears poised to become Jesuit’s leading scorer. He notched 43 goals a season again. He is committed to Iona in 2024.
Caden Harshbarger, Lake Mary (Fla.), M, Jr.
One of the top junior midfielders in the country, Caden Harshbarger returns after a 44-goal, 35-assist sophomore season. He is committed to North Carolina. Given his 6-1 frame, he is considered a top playmaker with his size and speed.
Jack Schulte, St.
Andrew’s (Fla.), A, Sr.
Jack Schulte led St. Andrew’s in goals in 2021 and 2022 in the squad’s quest to back-to-back state championships. After a 40-goal sophomore campaign, Schulte put up 60 goals and 53 assists in 2022. The attacker is committed to Air Force.
— Justin Boggs
PHOTO BY K.M. KLEMENCIC
Jack Jenkins of Hudson (Ohio) topped 125 points and 70 ground balls last spring.
MIDWEST
Jack Jenkins, Hudson (Ohio), A, Sr.
Jenkins played a critical role in the Explorers reaching states for the first time since 2016, topping 125 points and 70 ground balls. His big performances included five goals in Hudson’s 19-12 regional title game win over St. Ignatius. He also had five goals in the regional semifinals against Hoover and three goals and three assists in the previous round against Green.
Nikolas Menendez, Culver Academy (Ind.), D, Jr.
A Harvard commit, Menendez is a top-tier defender for one of the top lacrosse teams in the country.
Beyond his success throughout the 2022 season for the Eagles, Menendez has continued to compile rave reviews from talent evaluators.
Crandall Quinn, Forest Hills Central (Mich.), G, Sr.
A senior staple in net, Crandall Quinn was a key part of the Rangers’ perfect 2022 campaign. Per FHC coach Andy Shira, “His experience, top-level play in net, clearing ability and vocal leadership will be a big asset for our defense.”
Nate Schwitzenberg, Loyola Academy (Ill.), D, Sr.
The cliche is that defense wins championships and that was certainly the case for the Ramblers last season. Led by Schwitzenberg, a Notre Dame commit, Loyola held its last six foes to seven goals or fewer en route to a state title, holding those opponents to 4.33 goals per game.
Colin Vickrey, Culver Academy (Ind.), G, Sr.
The Eagles have stockpiled some of the nation’s top goalie prospects, and with an injury to Adam Blind, now at Harvard, Vickrey got to show off his immense talent last season against some of the top programs in the country.
Faring well against the likes of McDonogh (Md.), and expect Vickrey to be a force yet again in 2023.
— Jonah Rosenblum
WEST
Ben Beachum, La Costa Canyon (Calif.), M, Sr.
Considered a top 30 prospect in his recruiting class, Beachum is a smooth two-way playmaker. He’s tall, ambidextrous and athletic and will be heading to play for Penn next year.
Andrew Cook, Torrey Pines (Calif.), G, Jr.
A 6-foot, 175-pound athlete, Cook has been making big saves for Torrey Pines since he was a freshman and recorded 12 stops in the San Diego Open final. He had a 7.1 goals against average last year and made 173 saves in 21 games. Cook is committed to Johns Hopkins.
Finn Hauhuth, Arapahoe (Colo.), A, Sr.
The University of Maryland-bound attackman finished his junior season with 24 goals and 11 assists, but played his best in the state final to help Arapahoe claim the Class 5A title. He finished with four goals and one assist in that game.
Jack Kiefer, Cherry Creek (Colo.), D, Sr.
A solid man-to-man and positional defender, Kiefer began his lacrosse career as an offensive player, so he prides himself on his stick-handling, but he’s best known for his takeaway ability. He’s 6-foot-3, 195 pounds and headed to Duke next year.
Brett Koopman, Santa Fe Christian (Calif.), D/LSM, Sr.
A threat to score from anywhere inside the restraining line, Koopman brings the combination of exceptional hands, a hard shot and strong dodging ability. He’s aggressive pressing for turnovers and pushing transition, he creates havoc and he brings a strong lacrosse IQ. Koopman is headed to UNC next year.
— Laurel Pfahler
How and where did the game of lacrosse originate?
Lacrosse is a sport played by two teams using a long stick with a handle, known as a lacrosse or cross stick, and a small rubber ball, usually weighing about 0.31 ounces. Lacrosse is played by both men’s and women’s teams.
Lacrosse stick has a loose net on the end to catch and hold the ball in place. There are several different ways of attaching the net to a stick, which are known as stick stringing.
How is lacrosse played?
The main goal of the game is to throw the ball into the net of the opposing team’s goal past the goalkeeper. Players use a lacrosse stick to catch, hold and pass the ball in order to score a goal. Defensively, the opposing team tries to prevent the other team from getting the ball past the goaltender with lacrosse stick, positioning, and body contact. There are four types of lacrosse: women’s lacrosse, men’s field lacrosse, intercross, and boxing lacrosse.
Positioning in lacrosse
Lacrosse consists of four basic positions known as defense, attack, midfield and goalkeeper. While on the field, offensive lacrosse players play exclusively on offense, except when the opposing team is trying to get the ball onto the field. Defensive players in lacrosse play entirely defensively, except when the ball is being carried into the field.
The lacrosse goaltender is the last player on the defensive line to directly protect the goal post and prevent the opposing team from scoring. Linebackers do not have a defined position on the field, as they can play both offensively and defensively anywhere on the field except at higher levels of lacrosse play, where linebackers specialize in specific roles.
The History of Lacrosse
The origins of lacrosse go back to the cultural traditions of the Iroquois people of Ontario, Quebec in Canada, Pennsylvania and New York. Due to its roots, lacrosse is a traditional sport in the Northeastern United States, commonly known as the East Coast. However, in recent years, lacrosse has grown into a popular sport in the Western, Southern, and Middle United States.
Lacrosse is believed to have originated in 1100 AD among the indigenous peoples of the North American continent. In the 17th century ago, lacrosse was well developed and documented in present-day Canadian territory by Jesuit missionary priests.
Since the game was developed, it has evolved and undergone various modifications. The name of the game comes from the name of Jean de Brébeuf, a Jesuit missionary who, after seeing the Iroquois playing the game in 1637 in present-day New York, became the first European to write about the sport, calling it “la crosse”. It is believed that the name “la crosse” comes from the French word for field hockey.
Founding of the lacrosse club
After the continued success of the sport, William George Beers founded the lacrosse club in 1855. Beers, who was a Canadian dentist, founded the Montreal Lacrosse Club and later codified the game in 1867, shortening the length of each game and reducing the number of players to 12 on each team. In the early 19th century, lacrosse was one of the medal-winning sports in the 1904 and 1908 Olympics from the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. By the 20th century, lacrosse had already gained prominence in high schools, colleges, and universities in Canada and the United States.
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