NEWS
NOVEMBER 14TH, 2024
DUAL IN THE DESERT DOUBLE HEADER
NLL's Las Vegas Desert Dogs to Host Arizona vs. Arizona State in Double-Header “Duel in the Desert”
by Wildcat Press
Las Vegas (Nov. 12, 2024) – The Las Vegas Desert Dogs are thrilled to announce an exciting collegiate box lacrosse exhibition between the University of Arizona and Arizona State University at Lee’s Family Forum. This historic event, the "Desert Dogs Doubleheader - Duel in the Desert," will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, immediately following the Desert Dogs’ National Lacrosse League (NLL) game.
Fans who purchase tickets for the Las Vegas Desert Dogs game will have the unique opportunity to stay and enjoy both games, witnessing the rivalry between Arizona and Arizona State in a box lacrosse setting for the first time. The exhibition will start at 10:00 PM, or shortly after the conclusion of the Desert Dogs’ game. This event showcases collegiate box lacrosse in Las Vegas and supports the growing popularity of the sport on the West Coast.
“We are excited to host this historic matchup, giving our fans a chance to experience collegiate box lacrosse in a professional venue,” said Shawn Williams, Head Coach and General Manager for the Las Vegas Desert Dogs. “Events like this play an important role in expanding the game on the West Coast. By exposing more fans and young athletes to box lacrosse, we’re helping fuel interest and participation in the sport across the Southwest. We look forward to an electric atmosphere and a memorable night for everyone involved.”
Matt Blamey, Head Coach for the University of Arizona, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “This exhibition matchup against our rival, Arizona State, is an exciting way to kick off our spring season. We are thrilled to partner with the Las Vegas Desert Dogs for the event. I am a huge advocate of the box game. It brings invaluable benefits to the field, including increased speed, tighter stick skills, and a faster decision-making pace. This game will be a fantastic showcase for both teams. To my knowledge, this is the first sanctioned box game between two collegiate teams. We can’t wait to take the floor against the Sun Devils in Las Vegas. It is sure to be a fun event for all.”
Justin Straker, Head Coach of Arizona State University Men’s Lacrosse, added, “Our players are honored to have the chance to play box lacrosse in a professional venue against a fierce rival. The box format is exhilarating and tests the athletes in new ways, enhancing skills that we know will benefit our team. We’re grateful to the Las Vegas Desert Dogs for providing this platform and look forward to an exciting matchup against Arizona.”
The Desert Dogs continue to bring high-energy lacrosse events to Las Vegas, creating memorable experiences for fans while supporting the growth of the sport.
About Las Vegas Desert Dogs
The Las Vegas Desert Dogs are a professional box lacrosse team and a member of the National Lacrosse League (NLL). Known for their dedication to excellence and a passionate fanbase, the Desert Dogs are a proud symbol of local pride in Las Vegas. The team plays 18 regular-season games, with 9 at home at Lee’s Family Forum in Henderson, NV. For the latest news and updates, visit lasvegasdesertdogs.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok @VegasDesertDogs.
About University of Arizona Men’s Lacrosse
The University of Arizona Men’s Lacrosse team competes in the Southwestern Lacrosse Conference (SLC), Division I of the MCLA, one of the most competitive leagues in collegiate lacrosse. Arizona’s program has achieved notable milestones, including qualifying for the MCLA National Tournament in 2022 and reaching the SLC Championship Game in 2024. Follow on Instagram at @ArizonaLacrosse.
About Arizona State University Men’s Lacrosse
Arizona State University Men’s Lacrosse, competing since 1968, is a proud member of the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) and the Southwestern Lacrosse Conference (SLC). With a strong history of excellence, ASU Men’s Lacrosse has earned 3 SLC championships, made 6 MCLA Final Four appearances, and reached the MCLA National Championship Game three times. Follow in Instagram at @MensLacrosseASU.
SEPTEMBER 9TH, 2024
FALL ROSTER SELECTED
Fall Roster Selected
by Wildcat Press
TUCSON, AZ – After a rigorous three-day evaluation, the University of Arizona men’s lacrosse team is excited to announce its fall roster. The 58-man squad includes 34 returning players, 3 transfers, and 21 newcomers, representing 20 different states. The fall ball program will begin on Wednesday, September 11, with all selected athletes participating in a comprehensive training schedule. This includes mandatory field practices three times a week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday), strength and conditioning sessions three times a week, and a box lacrosse training program throughout November and December.
“Between returners, recruits, and walk-ons, we had about 70 athletes competing at tryouts,” said Head Coach Matt Blamey. “There was a tremendous amount of talent on display, and as a coaching staff, we had to make some difficult decisions. We’re confident we’ve selected the right group to represent Arizona on the field, and we can’t wait to get started. I’d also like to extend a sincere thank you to all the student-athletes who came out.”
The Wildcats will take the field for the first time this fall on Saturday, September 21, for the 2024 Red-Blue Game at UofA’s Sitton Field, with face-off set for 10:00 AM. Following that, Arizona will travel to Phoenix on October 12 for a scrimmage against Grand Canyon University. The fall season will conclude on Saturday, November 2, with a scrimmage in Orange County against NCAA Division II Concordia University Irvine.