Editor’s Note: Welcome to our NAIA lacrosse season-in-review series. Each day for the next month or so, we will be recapping last NAIA college lacrosse season in advance for the 2020 season. Today, we are looking at the University of Michigan – Dearborn out of the WHAC.
2019 University of Michigan – Dearborn Review
The Wolverines haven’t had a winning season since 2015. Since 2016, they have a combined record of (14-33). A1-11 campaign in 2019 featured an impressive win against Siena Heights, but also a loss to first year WHAC team Taylor U.
Key Losses
Losing only four players, Dearborn has a chance to make a big step in the right direction this year. On the defensive side they graduate midfielder Alex Gjokaj while losing Dennis Havlin down low. Both were contributors but won’t leave a huge void like the one left on offense by Devon Callaghan. The former Detroit Titan transfer finished last season with a team leading 38 goals and drew the top defender from every opponent opening up scoring opportunities for younger players.
2020 University of Michigan – Dearborn Outlook
The Wolverines are basically returning everyone. However, they need to become more consistent across the board and use that experience to finish games. Returning at attack are Adam Ranck (26 goals, 12 assists) and Ben Phillips (15 goals, 11 assists), but who will fill in that third attack position? Micah Rinke and Justin Brodzik return with 41 points to anchor the midfield.
Way Too Early Prediction
Dearborn beats Taylor and one other WHAC team, combined with two non-conference wins they get to four wins. Not a revival but a step in the right direction.
Team Info: http://athletics.umdearborn.edu/sports/mlax/index
Team Twitter: @umdearbornmlax
