PLATTSBURGH--The Plattsburgh State men’s lacrosse team wrapped up its non-traditional fall season in style – both on and off the field of play. With several new faces, the Cardinals routed Canada-based McGill University, 26-6, in an exhibition game at the Field House Complex. In addition, the team was just as successful in its on-going fundraising campaign “Cardinals Clip Cancer” for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
In the game versus the Redmen, 17 different players scored for the Cardinals. Newcomer Tim Lawrence led the way with nine points on four goals and five assists, followed by redshirt senior all-conference attackman Kyle Norchi with six goals. Newcomers Brett McClelland and Anthony Pafundi chipped in with three points apiece, Tommy Kilderry had two goals and Pete Morgan and Pat Wright had one each.
Plattsburgh also dominated on face-offs while winning 24-of-31 draws and excelled in special teams. The man-up offense went 2-for-3 and the defense killed off 8-of-11 opportunities with a man down. Nick Travers won all six of his face-offs.
“This is a great way to finish up fall ball, setting the tone for the 2011 season,” Kavanagh said. “I’m proud of the team for working hard in practice and being conscientious in community service initiatives.”
Before the McGill game, the Cardinals’ focus was on children’s cancer research. Team members were among 100 participants who shaved their heads to illustrate solidarity and respect for children who lose their hair while undergoing cancer treatments. With the assistance of volunteer student barbers from Champlain Valley-Technical Education Center (CV-TEC), the team received support with the attendance from College administrators and the community, as well as one-on-one interviews with various media outlets. So far this fall, the lacrosse program has raised $7500 and counting for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, helping in the fight against cancer affecting children.
The players’ leading fundraiser was freshman attackman Alex Carnaxide of Hauppauge High School, and this program has been spearheaded by the efforts of assistant coach Ryan Cavanagh.
