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BIG RED DOWNED BY MUSTANGS. SEASON ENDS.
May 17, 2012
Denison's season came to a close last night, 14-7, by the sticks of Stevenson in the NCAA quarterfinals. After even play in the first 8 minutes, highlighted by Chip Phillips domination at face-offs, the Mustangs ripped 6 goals to Denison's 1 to take an 8-3 halftime lead. The Big Red never recovered. Each time it seemed to gather momentum, a mistake or Stevenson goal stopped it. Goalie Nick Petracca kept the Big Red's hopes alive throughout the game as he faced 29 shots on cage, saving 15. See Denison's and Stevenson's official press releases.
The first half must have been deju vu for the Big Red, as it evolved nearly identically to the first game played between the teams in April. In that game, Stevenson scored 7 goals in the second quarter and went on to win 12-9 despite Denison's concerted comeback attempt in the second half. Unfortunately, Denison's play wasn't consistent enough this time. It turned the ball over (27) too often, missed ground ball and scoring opportunities, and failed to convert on extra man plays (0-4). There was one point, at the beginning of the fourth quarter, when the Big Red seemed on the verge of taking over the game. The score was 10-6 but 2 point blank scoring opportunities were missed and an extra man possession was lost, killing that momentum.
To Stevenson's credit, it shot exceedingly well, scoring 15 goals on 40 shots; nullified Denison's outstanding face-off unit; and its defense did a good job of double teaming in the second half to keep the Big Red at bay.
Denison ends the season with a 15-2 record, the best winning percentage in school history and ties the '82 team for most wins. The team will graduate 10 players including 2 attackmen (Couture, Hardt), 2 scoring midfielders (Lukens, Walsh), 2 defensive midfielder (Verklin, Stanton and 1 starting defenseman (Farrell).
Pictured: junior goalie Nick Petracca makes a save against Stevenson
DENISON TO PLAY STEVENSON IN QUARTERFINALS
May 15, 2012
The Big Red, ranked #8, travels to Owings Mills, MD to face the #6 Stevenson Mustangs tomorrow at 8pm EST in what promises to be a great match up. See the game preview and watch the game live online.
BIG RED ADVANCE TO ELITE 8
May 14, 2012
The Denison defense was superlative on Saturday night as it throttled the nation's #13 ranked offense en route to a 10-5 victory over #3 Lynchburg (see Denison's official press release; read Lynchburg's official press release). Next up: Stevenson, whom the Big Red has never beaten, this coming Wednesday in Owings Mills, MD. Stevenson reached Wednesday's game by defeating Gettysburg 13-6 on Saturday.
The key to Denison's victory was its outstanding ground ball work (40 to 26), particularly in the first quarter, its domination at face-offs, great goalie play, and a 3/6 performance at man-up. Attackman Cory Couture had 5 assists.
Pictured: junior defensive midfielder Bart Farinholt holds off a Lynchberg shooter
DENISON HEADS TO LYNCHBURG FOR NCAA 2ND ROUND
May 11, 2012
The Big Red narrowly escaped an unexpectedly talented Adrian College in its 11-10 2OT win on Wednesday. It now travels to Lynchburg, VA for Saturday's 7pm EST match up against the #3 Lynchburg College Hornets. The game can be seen live online: CLICK HERE.
Against Adrian, which composed of many Canadian players whose style was unfamiliar to the Big Red, Denison's 10-day lay off was evident. It dominated statistically in possessions (ground balls, shots, face-offs, etc) but it allowed Adrian too many good looks at the cage and its shooting wasn't up to par. Still, after going down 4-1 in the first quarter, the Big Red stormed back to tie and showed its grit the rest of the way. Adrian excelled in 2 areas: it shot exceedingly well (2/3 of its shots were on goal and scored at a near 30% clip) and its goalie made some outstanding 1 on 1 stops. Fittingly, it was the NCAC Player of the Year, Cory Couture, who gave the Big Red the victory with a goal off a question mark move in the second overtime. Read the official press release.
Lynchburg is ranked #3 in Division III and #2 in the South region. Playing a slightly more competitive schedule than the Big Red, its defense and offense are ranked just below Denison in the NCAA's statistics. The teams have two common opponents: Stevenson (W 6-3) and W&L (W12-4 and 10-4). Denison lost to Stevenson 12-9 and defeated W&L 15-9.
In recent years, the Big Red have shown a strong ability to step up its game against higher ranked opponents in the NCAA's. It did so in 2009 against Roanoke (W 14-7); last year against #4 RIT when it lost in OT 11-12. Coach Caravana's troops keep their calm under pressure, his defense is excellent and the offense is extremely well-balanced. We have to give the edge to Lynchburg but look for a very competitive game on Saturday that could go down to the wire. Watch the game live online at 7pm EST: CLICK HERE.
In recent years, the Big Red have shown a strong ability to step up its game against higher ranked opponents in the NCAA's. It did so in 2009 against Roanoke (W 14-7); last year against #4 RIT when it lost in OT 11-12. Coach Caravana's troops keep their calm under pressure, his defense is excellent and the offense is extremely well-balanced. We have to give the edge to Lynchburg but look for a very competitive game on Saturday that could go down to the wire. Watch the game live online at 7pm EST: CLICK HERE.
BIG RED DOMINATE ALL NCAC SELECTIONS
May 11, 2012
Denison was the most popular name in yesterday's announcement of this year's North Coast Athletic Conference All Conference teams. The Big Red placed 7 players on the first team, including Player of the Year Cory Attackman Cory Couture. Couture, a senior attackman from California, led the team in points this season. Denison last placed 7 players on the first team in 2008. Read the NCAC official press release.
WILL DENISON BEAT ADRIAN?
May 8, 2012
The Big Red face off at 2pm in Granville tomorrow against the 16-1 Adrian College Bulldogs in the first round of the 2012 NCAA tournament. You can view the game via live video at denisonbigred.com.
Adrian is the champion of the Midwest Lacrosse Conference and boasts a high scoring offense and solid defense. Will Denison prevail in the game? The Insider gives his perspective on tomorrow's game.
BIG RED OPENS NCAA PLAY VS. ADRIAN
May 7, 2012
May 7, 2012
The Big Red will play Adrian College (MI) in Granville on Wednesday in the first round of the 2012 NCAA tournament (see official press release). NCAC rivals Kenyon and Ohio Wesleyan were also selected and will travel to Dickinson and Gettysburg, respectively. See the entire Divison III bracket.
The Insider will have a full analysis of the game soon.
DENISON AWAITS INVITATION TO THE BIG DANCE
May 6, 2012
Following its most successful season since 1968 (see story), the Big Red anxiously awaits tonight's NCAA tournament selections (10:30pm EST on NCAA.com). While it's clear Denison will get a bid, the question is where it'll fit in the bracket. The coaches poll and Laxpower both rate the Big Red #8 in the country, but the NCAA's selection process is more defined...and complicated.
The NCAA splits the country into North and South regions and currently rates Denison #8 in the South. Of course, there are many "experts" in DIII fandom that speculate endlessly as to exactly how the NCAA will seed the Big Red. Guesses range from Adrian to Kenyon to Gettysburg in the first round, which will be played at the higher seed this coming Wednesday. Be sure to tune into ESPNU tonight at 10pm to find out!
Look for a story from The Insider early this coming week for insights into Denison's upcoming NCAA tournament game.
The NCAA splits the country into North and South regions and currently rates Denison #8 in the South. Of course, there are many "experts" in DIII fandom that speculate endlessly as to exactly how the NCAA will seed the Big Red. Guesses range from Adrian to Kenyon to Gettysburg in the first round, which will be played at the higher seed this coming Wednesday. Be sure to tune into ESPNU tonight at 10pm to find out!
Look for a story from The Insider early this coming week for insights into Denison's upcoming NCAA tournament game.
LACROSSE FILM OPENS MAY 16
May 6, 2012
Crooked Arrows, the first mainstream lacrosse film, debuts in 50 cities across the U.S. on Fri, May 18 and nationwide on June 1. The story involves a mixed-blood Native American eager to modernize his reservation. He must first prove himself to his father, the Tribal Chairman, by rediscovering his spirit. He's tasked with coaching the reservation's high school lacrosse team which competes against the better equipped and better trained players of the elite Prep School League. The coach and team climb an uphill battle to win the state championship. See the movie trailer.
Support the game and see the movie. CLICK HERE to find out where it'll be playing.
MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR TOMMY THOMSEN JUNE 22
May 6, 2012
A formal memorial service for legendary Big Red coach Tommy Thomsen will be held in the chapel at Camp Deerwood (Holderness, NH) at 5pm on Friday, June 22. If you plan to attend, CLICK HERE to register.
DLA TO HOST HOSPITALITY TENT AT NCAA'S
May 5, 2012
For the second year in a row, Dan Johnson ('87) has been gracious enough to sponsor the Denison Lacrosse Alumni tent at NCAA Final Four weekend. This year the Final Four will be held in Foxborough, MA (Gillette Stadium). As the Big Red get ready to begin their tournament run, we hope you'll join other members of the DLA, friends and family at what is sure to be a great weekend.
If you are planning on attending the Final Four please contact Dan Johnson at dan_johnson_99@yahoo.com or (203) 722-0130. As we did last year, we ask that attendees help provide some of the food and beverages for the weekend. Dan will provide details.
Our tent will be located right next to the stadium in the West Club Parking Lot (Lot 22). It will be a great home base for all during the weekend and we certainly hope you plan to attend. The tent will be open 3 hours before face-off of Game 1 on Saturday for those of you who arrive early.
Please help spread the word about this great event!
If you're interested in donating to help cover cost associated with this event, please CLICK HERE or DLA Chairman Kurt Federer at kfederer@gmail.com.
We hope to see the Big Red playing that weekend! Please stay in tuned to this website to learn more about the Big Red's tournament schedule.
Please help spread the word about this great event!
If you're interested in donating to help cover cost associated with this event, please CLICK HERE or DLA Chairman Kurt Federer at kfederer@gmail.com.
We hope to see the Big Red playing that weekend! Please stay in tuned to this website to learn more about the Big Red's tournament schedule.
THE DLA NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT
May 5, 2012
The Denison Lacrosse Alumni needs your help to support Denison lacrosse. Its 2012 initiatives include hosting events in Chicago, Washington DC, and the NCAA Championships, as well as supporting the Denison Open team at the Summit Lacrosse Classic in Lake Place among other activities. Make your donation today.
To learn how you can help, CLICK HERE.
SILVER LINING IN BIG RED LOSS
April 10, 2012
The Big Red played tough in 3 of 4 quarters against #6 Stevenson last weekend but a disastrous 2nd period, in which it gave up 7 goals, was too much to overcome as it lost 12-9. The issue in the first half was possessions: Stevenson dominated face-offs and ground balls, which enabled it to rip off 32 shots to Denison's 13. Still, there were plenty of positives: goalie Nick Petracca was outstanding in turning away 9 shots in the first quarter alone and 15 overall; attackman Eddie Vita continues his goal scoring ways; midfielders Davis Lukens and Zack Walsh continued to produce; and the team overall competed hard, outplaying the Mustangs in the second half. See the official press release.
However, the loss was softened by the numerous of upsets among others in the upper echelon of Division III over the weekend. What do these have to do with Denison? The Insider has more.
DENISON LACROSSE ALUMNI REVISES LOGO
April 5, 2012
When the DLA was founded in 2004, it connected hundreds of alumni of Denison's men's lacrosse program. Today, over 300 members, representing classes from 1952 through 2011, stay in contact with each other and the varsity program. Its original logo was designed with a contemporary flair but the Trustees felt that it lacked an important element: a true reflection of the generations of lacrosse players within the organization. The new logo gives homage to all DLA members by featuring a wooden stick crossed with a contemporary stick but still retains its original characteristics.
The new logo was redesigned by Steve Nazaruk '73 of StarStix Lacrosse Designs, who also conceived of the DLA's original logo. "We felt that the original logo didn't give proper recognition to the players who played at Denison throughout its 59-year history," says DLA Chairman Kurt Federer '05. "Plastic sticks were introduced in 1971, which means that players in classes as recent as 1974 used wooden sticks for part or all of their Big Red careers. Nearly 25% of our membership fits into that group. We wanted our logo to be more reflective of our membership."
LONG TIME RIVALS DENISON, KENYON HONOR THEIR HISTORY
April 5, 2012
Denison and Kenyon jointly announced today the creation of the Thomsen-Heiser Trophy to be awarded annually to the winner of their annual match up. The trophy commemorates the rich tradition of the rivalry, which extends back to 1953 and recognizes the long time contributions to the respective institutions by head coaches Tommy Thomsen and Bill Heiser. Thomsen coached the Big Red from 1967-1990; Heiser headed up the Purple Lords from 1970-1993. In a larger context, both coaches were highly influential in the growth of lacrosse in the Midwest and are members of the Ohio Lacrosse Hall of Fame. See Denison's official press release.
The trophy will be first awarded when the teams play in Granville on Saturday, April 21. The game will be streamed live online.
Pictured: Left to right: Bill Heiser, Tommy Thomsen
BIG RED OVERWHELM BISHOPS; STILL UNDEFEATED
April 1, 2012
Denison's dominating victory (12-5) over Ohio Wesleyan yesterday was its 7th in a row and 10th in the last 11 tries against the Bishops (see official press release). The Big Red is now 8-0 and, after facing Oberlin on Wednesday, is headed for a momentous clash with #7 Stevenson next Saturday. The Big Red's win was decided in 5 key areas: tenacious riding, face-offs, ground balls, goal scoring by sophomore attackman Eddie Vita and outstanding work in the cage by sophomore Nick Petracca. The Insider provides some insights and hints for the rest of the season.
Pictured: sophomore goalie Nick Petracca
MID-SEASON REPORT 
March 24, 2012
The Big Red remained undefeated (7-0) after its 15-5 win over Wooster (4-5) on Saturday (see official press release). Believe it or not, the 2012 season is already half over, so it's a good time for The Insider to take a look at overall performances and look ahead.
DLA HOSTS HAVERFORD TAILGATE
March 15, 2012
The Denison Lacrosse Alumni would like to thank all alumni, parents and friends of the program who supported the Big Red's 11-5 victory over Haverford and attended our pre-game tailgate party in Alexandria, VA. The event was well attended by current players, parents and alumni which made for a fun afternoon. A special thank you goes out to Victor Maddux '97 for not only organizing the event but donating the funds necessary to conduct the event.
This pre-game event is part if the new initiatives by the DLA to further connect alumni with the current program. The DLA hosted a member event in Chicago in January and plans to host a tent at the NCAA finals. If you are interested in hosting a DLA event in your home town or at a Denison game, please email Chairman Kurt Federer at kfederer@gmail.com.
This pre-game event is part if the new initiatives by the DLA to further connect alumni with the current program. The DLA hosted a member event in Chicago in January and plans to host a tent at the NCAA finals. If you are interested in hosting a DLA event in your home town or at a Denison game, please email Chairman Kurt Federer at kfederer@gmail.com.
DENISON COMPLETES SPRING TRIP TO GO 5-0
March 15, 2012
The Big Red completed its spring trip yesterday with a scary victory, 7-6, over St. Mary's of Maryland. Attackman Eddie Vita had a big day with 3 goals and an assist. Read the official press release. The Team now stands 5-0 as it prepares to play Centre College (KY), which is in its second year of lacrosse, at home on Saturday.
BIG RED AMONG DIII'S BEST
March 12, 2012
Denison is 4-0 and ranked in among the best in Division III by the USILA coaches (#11). Cory Couture is among the country's hottest scorers. Check out our rankings page to see how the Big Red compares to other teams across the country.
BOB MARTIN '69 INDUCTED INTO DENISON HALL OF FAME
February 19, 2012
Last fall, Bob Martin '69 became the 12th men's lacrosse player to be inducted into Denison's Hall of Fame. He was a two-time All-American and four-year letter winner for the Big Red between 1966 and 1969. One of the top goalies in history of the program, Martin remains the Denison record-holder in career saves percentage (.757) and single-season saves percentage (80%).
As a sophomore in 1967 he stopped a record 80 percent of shots faced, and in 1968 he posted the #2 best season by a DU goalie, stopping 77 percent of shots faced. After serving as team captain his senior season, Martin was voted team Most Valuable Player and selected for the North-South Game. He also was featured in the May 5, 1969, issue of Sports Illustrated. The article by Peter Carry titled “Big Sticks of the Midwest” talked about the rise in popularity of college lacrosse in the Midwest. Portrayed somewhat as a renaissance man, Martin was specifically highlighted in the article for his upbringing on an Ohio farm, for his love of writing poetry, and his uncanny ability to “eat the ball,” which is another way of saying that he made great saves by using his body. Martin also ranks #8 in career saves (461). His 1968 team boasts 2 major honors: it holds the school record for goals against (3.36) and is the only Big Red team to win the national championship (1968).
While at Denison, Martin was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He earned his bachelor of arts in 1969 and went on to receive a master of science in natural resources from Ohio State University and another master’s degree from the Conway School of Landscape Design in Massachusetts. Martin continued to play competitive lacrosse into the 1980s, earning Most Valuable Player accolades from the Cleveland Lacrosse Club, the Columbus Lacrosse Club and the Lexington (Ky.) Lacrosse Club. Bob is currently employed as a financial advisor for Wells Fargo. He lives in Columbus and has two sons, Mac and Ryan.
The Insider spoke to Martin about his induction and Denison career. Click here for the interview.
DENISON OPENS SEASON WITH BLOW OUT WIN
February 19, 2012
The Big Red opened its 59th season by crushing Mount St. Joseph's 21-1 yesterday at home. Senior attackman Corey Couture (Coronado, CA), was in high gear throughout the day, scoring 7 goals and 3 assists. Read the game recap. Also, click here to view the 2012 season preview, including a video by the Denison Sports Network.
DLA MEMBERS GATHER IN CHICAGO
February 14, 2012
The Chicago chapter of the Denison Lacrosse Alumni convened to bring in the new year at the Four Farthings Bar & Restaurant on January 14. Coach Mike Caravana and DLA Chairman Kurt Federer '05 headlined the event, which was organized by Ted Douglass '06 and Dan Maude '10. The DLA provided appetizers for the event. In all, representatives of 9 classes from 1995 to 2011 attended. A great showing for what was the first in a series of similar events to come this year and beyond. Click here to read the event recap.
The next event is scheduled for Saturday March 10th in Alexandria, VA. Details will be announced at a later date.
RIEHL INDUCTED INTO DENISON HALL OF FAME
February 1, 2012
Mike Riehl ’82 has been acclaimed by some to have been the greatest midfielder in the Big Red’s illustrious past. In the fall of 2010, Denison added its own recognition of his accomplishments when it inducted him into the Hall of Fame.
A quick look at the Big Red’s all time statistics will tell you all you need to know.
- #3 in goals scored with 121
- #17 in total points with 155 (121/34)
- #10 in total points for a season (65)
- #1 in career shots attempted (455)
- #2 in season shots attempted (155)
- #2 in ground balls (349)
Riehl bookended his career in Granville nicely, scoring a phenomenal 30 goals his freshman year, 1979 (at the time, he was one of only 8 players who had scored 30 or more goals in a season) and ending it by leading the team in goals (52, setting the team record for midfielders) and earning a Second Team All America selection as a senior. Riehl was a ground ball hawk at a time when platooning midfields wasn’t the norm. He is Denison’s #2 all time ground ball leader (349). He was elected team captain for his senior season.
He proved that he still could play when he donned Denison's colors several years ago for the Grand Masters team (52+) in the Summit Lacrosse Classic at Lake Placid. Riehl was a leading goal scorer with 7 in 4 games.
Insider’s note: Lacrosse players have been getting more Hall of Fame attention than ever recently by the men’s D Association. There have been 4 players who have been inducted: Andy John ‘84 in 2007; Steve Nazaruk ’73 in 2008; Mike Riehl ’82 in 2010; and Bob Martin ’69 in 2011. We’ll have an interview with Martin by mid-February.
The Insider recently interviewed Riehl, who spoke candidly about his Hall of Fame induction. (Read the interview)
LAKE PLACID GRAND MASTERS TEAM SEEKING PLAYERS
February 1, 2012
Denison's Grand Masters team, spearheaded by Jim Shaler '86, is recruiting players for the Summit Lacrosse Classic in Lake Placid (Aug. 2-5, 2012). If you're interested in learning more, contact Jim at 813-784-6237 or jimannshaler@msn.com. Shales promises you'll have a blast!
LEGENDARY COACH, TOMMY THOMSEN, PASSES AWAY
January 8, 2012
When Denison’s legendary lacrosse coach Ferris “Tommy” Thomsen passed away on January 2, 2012, the lacrosse community lost one of its pioneers, one of its most successful coaches and one of the most respected role models in the game. Expressions of admiration poured in from the media, other coaches and former players as they attempted to put into words their thoughts about what Tommy brought to the game as a coach and teacher.
Tommy coached the Big Red for 25 years, more than half of the program’s overall existence, leading the team to 255 victories (72.4% win percentage) as his teams averaged over 10 wins per season. He experienced only 1 losing season during that time. Forty-four players earned All America status under his guidance.
For those wishing to express their appreciation for Tommy, the family has asked that donations be made to the Deerwood Foundation, c/o Henry Damon, 16 Dee Road, Lexington, MA 02420 and/or they may contact the family at info@campdeerwood.com.
Tommy’s funeral service on January 6 was attended by approximately 250 people, comprised of family, friends, and many with either Denison lacrosse or Deerwood connections to the Thomsen family. Attending DLA members were Ted Barclay ‘57, Warren Ferguson ’70, Sandy Campbell ’65, Al Burnett ’66, Pete Johnson ’66, Bob Martin ’69, Warren Ferguson ’70, Ted Haynie ’72, Steve Nazaruk ’73, Jonathan Holmes ’76, John Fisher ’78, Tim Ross ’78, John Florence ’79, Dave Baxter ’81, Mike Riehl ’82, Tom Maddux ’82, and Tom Riehl ’85.
There will be another service for Tommy held at Camp Deerwood in Holderness, NH on Friday, June 22, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. More details will be provided at a later date.
Read what former players said about their coach.
See Denison press release
Read Denison President Dale Knoebel's letter to the Denison University community.
NEW FEATURE: MEET THE TEAM
December 27, 2011
As part of its overall support of Denison lacrosse, the Denison Lacrosse Alumni regularly connect alumni and varsity players to help in their job networking efforts. This new feature, Meet The Team, profiles a current varsity player with emphasis on his experience, qualifications and preferred career path.
Our first feature is of Captain Alex Hardt. Expected to be an outstanding offensive performer at attack, after playing midfield his first 3 seasons, Hardt is no stranger to working with the DLA. He was a key member of Denison's Open team at the 2011 Summit Lacrosse Classic in Lake Placid, a team that is partially funded by the DLA in order to connect alumni and varsity players.
CLICK HERE to learn more about Alex Hardt.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
November 22, 2012
As part of our ongoing series of interviews with Denison Lacrosse Alumni, the Insider spoke with 3 members of the Big Red recently.
Colin Brune '96 was a 3-time All NCAC pick, twice at close defense and once at long pole, during his career. He currently lives in Birmingham, AL and works for MarketSource, Inc. More...
Victor Maddux '97 was one of the Big Red's finest-ever attackman. A 2-time All America and 2-time All NCAC selection, he amassed 190 points (107g, 83a) during his career, ranking him #7 among all-time goal scorers and #8 in total points. He still holds the single game total points record (12 vs Oberlin in 1997). Victor currently lives in Washington, D.C. with his wife and 3 children. More...
Nate Hall '09 was a 4-year starter and 2-time captain for the Big Red. As a 2-time All NCAC performer, Hall was best known as a feeder during his career, which resulted in his current #13 all time ranking in assists with 78. He currently lives in Chicaco and works for DWS Investments. More...
DENISON PROFILED BY LACROSSE MAGAZINE
November 21, 2012
Head Coach Mike Caravana and the Denison Big Red are the subject of a feature story in this month's Lacrosse Magazine. Read more...
GRAND MASTERS RETURNS TO LAKE PLACID
November 22, 2012
After a 3 year hiatus and led by the energy of Jim Shaler '86, the Denison Grandmasters made a successful return to the Lake Placid Classic in August. The weekend was made particularly specials when the Big Red met up with the Battling Bishops of Ohio Wesleyan. More...