Who are the greatest male lacrosse players in history. What achievements define their legendary careers. How did these athletes revolutionize the game of lacrosse. Which players had the most significant impact on the sport’s popularity and development.
The Unrivaled Legacy of Jim Brown: Lacrosse’s Greatest Icon
When discussing the greatest lacrosse players of all time, one name consistently rises to the top: Jim Brown. Despite his renowned football career, Brown’s lacrosse prowess was arguably even more impressive. His impact on the sport during his time at Syracuse University in the 1950s was nothing short of revolutionary.
What made Jim Brown such a dominant force in lacrosse?
- Exceptional scoring ability: Brown scored 43 goals in just 10 games during his senior year
- All-American honors: Second-Team selection as a junior, First-Team as a senior
- Versatility: Excelled in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and track
- Legacy: Inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1983
- Lasting impact: The Premier Lacrosse League named their MVP trophy after him
Brown’s influence extended far beyond his playing days. His exceptional skill and athleticism helped propel lacrosse into the spotlight, significantly boosting its popularity during the 1950s. To this day, many consider Jim Brown the most influential figure in the sport’s history, cementing his place at the top of our list.
Gary Gait: The Revolutionary Canadian Who Transformed Lacrosse
Following closely behind Jim Brown is Gary Gait, a Canadian-born lacrosse player who redefined the sport with his innovative style and unparalleled success. Gait’s impact on lacrosse is immeasurable, from his college days at Syracuse University to his professional career and beyond.
How did Gary Gait revolutionize the game of lacrosse?
- Innovative moves: Introduced flashy techniques like behind-the-back passes and the famous “Air Gait”
- Collegiate dominance: Three-time NCAA DI national champion and two-time NCAA DI Player of the Year
- Professional success: Six-time NLL MVP and multiple MLL awards
- Equipment innovation: Co-founded Gait Lacrosse, manufacturing cutting-edge lacrosse gear
- Coaching impact: Led both men’s and women’s teams at Syracuse University
Gait’s influence on lacrosse extends far beyond his playing career. His innovative style of play inspired a new generation of players, while his success in both college and professional leagues set a new standard for excellence. As a coach and equipment manufacturer, Gait continues to shape the sport’s future, solidifying his place as one of the greatest lacrosse players of all time.
Mikey Powell: The Syracuse Dynasty Continues
Carrying on the legacy of Syracuse lacrosse greats is Mikey Powell, a player whose skill and creativity on the field earned him a place among the sport’s elite. Powell’s college career was nothing short of spectacular, setting records and winning championships that would cement his status as a lacrosse legend.
What achievements define Mikey Powell’s lacrosse career?
- Four-time First-Team All-American: The only player in NCAA history to achieve this feat
- Two-time Tewaaraton Award winner: Recognized as the best player in college lacrosse
- NCAA championships: Led Syracuse to titles in 2002 and 2004
- Scoring prowess: Finished his college career with 307 points, a Syracuse record at the time
- Professional success: First overall pick in the 2004 MLL draft, four-time All-Star
Powell’s impact on lacrosse goes beyond his statistical achievements. His creative playing style and flair for the dramatic made him a fan favorite and inspired countless young players to take up the sport. By combining athleticism with artistry, Powell helped elevate lacrosse to new heights of popularity and respect.
John Grant Jr.: The Canadian Scoring Machine
John Grant Jr. stands out as one of the most prolific scorers in lacrosse history. His incredible stick skills, vision, and scoring ability made him a dominant force in both indoor and outdoor lacrosse for over two decades.
What makes John Grant Jr. one of the greatest lacrosse players ever?
- College dominance: Won the Tewaaraton Award in 2000 while at the University of Delaware
- NLL success: Named MVP twice and won the Champion’s Cup in 2007
- MLL excellence: Four-time MVP and all-time points leader upon retirement
- International acclaim: Led Team Canada to multiple world championships
- Longevity: Played professionally for over 20 years, retiring in his 40s
Grant’s ability to excel in both box and field lacrosse sets him apart from many of his peers. His innovative shooting techniques and creative playmaking skills have influenced countless players and helped push the boundaries of what’s possible in lacrosse. Even after retirement, Grant’s impact on the sport continues through his coaching and mentorship of younger players.
Paul Rabil: The Face of Modern Lacrosse
Paul Rabil has become synonymous with professional lacrosse in the 21st century. His combination of on-field excellence and off-field entrepreneurship has helped elevate the sport to new heights of popularity and professionalism.
How has Paul Rabil contributed to the growth and development of lacrosse?
- College success: Two-time national champion at Johns Hopkins University
- MLL dominance: League MVP in 2009 and 2011, 10-time All-Star
- Business acumen: Co-founded the Premier Lacrosse League in 2018
- Media presence: Built a large social media following, promoting lacrosse to new audiences
- Philanthropy: Established the Paul Rabil Foundation to support students with learning differences
Rabil’s impact on lacrosse extends far beyond his impressive playing career. By leveraging his success and popularity, he has become a powerful advocate for the sport, working tirelessly to increase its visibility and accessibility. His efforts to professionalize lacrosse through the creation of the PLL have opened up new opportunities for players and helped secure the sport’s future.
Casey Powell: The Versatile Lacrosse Legend
Casey Powell’s versatility and consistency across multiple levels of play have earned him a place among the greatest lacrosse players of all time. From his college days at Syracuse to his long professional career, Powell has consistently demonstrated his skill and leadership on the field.
What aspects of Casey Powell’s career set him apart from other lacrosse greats?
- College accolades: Four-time All-American and 1998 National Player of the Year at Syracuse
- Professional success: Named MLL MVP in 2014 at age 38
- International play: Key member of Team USA in multiple world championships
- Coaching impact: Served as player-coach for several professional teams
- Longevity: Played professionally for over 15 years, maintaining a high level of performance
Powell’s ability to adapt his game as he aged is a testament to his lacrosse IQ and work ethic. His leadership both on and off the field has inspired teammates and opponents alike, while his commitment to growing the game through coaching and clinics has helped introduce lacrosse to new generations of players.
Lyle Thompson: Redefining Native American Influence in Lacrosse
Lyle Thompson represents the continuing legacy of Native American contributions to lacrosse. His exceptional skill, creativity, and cultural pride have made him one of the most influential players of the modern era.
How has Lyle Thompson impacted the world of lacrosse?
- College dominance: Co-winner of the Tewaaraton Award in 2014, sole winner in 2015
- Record-breaking: Set the NCAA Division I point record with 400 career points
- Professional success: First overall pick in both the NLL and MLL drafts
- Cultural ambassador: Promotes Native American heritage and lacrosse’s indigenous roots
- Youth inspiration: Role model for young Native American athletes
Thompson’s playing style, characterized by exceptional vision and creative flair, has redefined what’s possible on the lacrosse field. Beyond his on-field achievements, his commitment to honoring his Onondaga heritage and promoting lacrosse’s Native American origins has brought important cultural awareness to the sport.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Through Its Greatest Players
The impact of these legendary players extends far beyond their individual achievements. Each has contributed to the evolution of lacrosse in unique ways, from Jim Brown’s early influence on the sport’s popularity to Paul Rabil’s efforts to professionalize the game. Their collective legacy has shaped lacrosse into the dynamic and growing sport it is today.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Lacrosse Stars
The accomplishments of these top players serve as inspiration for aspiring lacrosse athletes around the world. Their dedication, skill, and innovation have set new standards for excellence in the sport, challenging future generations to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the lacrosse field.
Rob Pannell: The Scoring Phenom
Rob Pannell’s extraordinary scoring ability and leadership on the field have earned him a place among lacrosse’s elite players. His college career at Cornell University set numerous records and laid the foundation for a successful professional career.
What makes Rob Pannell stand out in the world of lacrosse?
- College achievements: Won the Tewaaraton Award in 2013 and set the NCAA Division I career points record
- Professional success: Named MLL Rookie of the Year in 2013 and league MVP in 2018
- International play: Key contributor to Team USA’s gold medal at the 2018 World Lacrosse Championship
- Consistency: Maintained a high level of performance throughout his career
- Leadership: Known for his on-field communication and ability to elevate his teammates’ play
Pannell’s precise shooting, exceptional field vision, and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates have made him one of the most respected attackmen in lacrosse history. His dedication to perfecting his craft and his leadership both on and off the field have inspired countless young players to pursue excellence in the sport.
Tom Marecheck: The Defensive Mastermind
While many of the sport’s biggest stars are known for their offensive prowess, Tom Marecheck stands out as one of the greatest defensive players in lacrosse history. His ability to shut down opponents and control the game from the defensive end has earned him a place among the sport’s legends.
How did Tom Marecheck revolutionize defensive play in lacrosse?
- College dominance: Three-time First Team All-American at Johns Hopkins University
- Professional impact: Named MLL Defensive Player of the Year multiple times
- Tactical innovation: Developed new defensive techniques that influenced coaching strategies
- Versatility: Excelled in both close defense and long-stick midfield positions
- Leadership: Captained professional and national teams, mentoring younger players
Marecheck’s defensive skills went beyond simply stopping opponents. His ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and generate turnovers made him a true game-changer. By elevating the importance of defensive play, Marecheck helped create a more balanced and strategic approach to lacrosse at all levels of the game.
Kyle Harrison: The Midfield Maestro
Kyle Harrison’s athleticism, skill, and leadership have made him one of the most respected midfielders in lacrosse history. His impact on the sport extends from his college days at Johns Hopkins to his professional career and his efforts to grow the game globally.
What aspects of Kyle Harrison’s career have cemented his place among lacrosse’s greats?
- College success: Won the Tewaaraton Award in 2005 and led Johns Hopkins to a national championship
- Professional achievements: Multiple-time MLL All-Star and key player in the PLL
- Versatility: Excelled in both offensive and defensive aspects of midfield play
- Global ambassador: Worked to promote lacrosse internationally, particularly in Africa
- Innovation: Collaborated on equipment design to improve player performance and safety
Harrison’s well-rounded skill set and athletic prowess have redefined the midfield position in lacrosse. His ability to dominate in all aspects of the game – from face-offs to scoring to defense – has set a new standard for midfielders at all levels. Beyond his on-field contributions, Harrison’s work to promote diversity in lacrosse and grow the sport globally has had a lasting impact on the lacrosse community.
The Diverse Skills That Define Lacrosse Greatness
The players on this list represent a wide range of skills and playing styles, from offensive powerhouses to defensive specialists. This diversity highlights the multifaceted nature of lacrosse and the various ways players can excel in the sport. Whether through scoring prowess, defensive mastery, or all-around versatility, each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game.
The Future of Lacrosse: Building on a Legacy
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity and expand globally, the achievements of these top players serve as a foundation for the sport’s future. Their innovations, both on and off the field, have paved the way for new developments in playing techniques, equipment design, and league structures. The next generation of lacrosse stars will undoubtedly build upon this rich legacy, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this dynamic and exciting sport.
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
Mikey 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
Sergey Murashov: “If the players invented lacrosse, then the goalkeepers will come up with anti-lacrosse. There are ways to counter it” – Hockey
Sergey Murashov spoke about lacrosse-style goals.
– Did they try to score a lacrosse goal for you?
– Yes. I remember that in the first season in the MHL, I was hit with lacrosse when we played with Atlant. It was my second or third league game. He came off the bench in the third period and missed lacrosse. It was so unexpected!
In the 2021/22 season, they tried to score more. Lacrosse is another new trend, but there are ways to counter it too. Remember how Kirill Samsonov beat off one lacrosse from Matvey Michkov in the final, and the second one failed. Goalkeepers are looking for ways to deal with them. If the players invented lacrosse, then the goalkeepers will come up with anti-lacrosse.
– Does the missed lacrosse put pressure on the goalkeeper psychologically?
– They beat me to lacrosse, and then they will post it on the MHL social networks, right? (smiles) Actually, there is no such thing. Killed and beaten. Lacrosse doesn’t count as ten goals, it’s only plus one. You keep playing and don’t think too much. Lacrosse must not take down the goaltender. This is the same goal as the others. No additional rewards are awarded for him, – said the goalkeeper of the Lokomotiv system.
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