Lax Facts: Your Cheat-Sheet for the Lacrosse World Championships
•Thinking about attending the Federation of International Lacrosse Championships this month? Here are the games you need to know about.
Bonus: Read more about Colorado lacrosse in our July issue here.
- 3D Lacrosse staffer and Denver native Ben Brenneman is the head coach for Team Argentina, which is trying to improve on a second-to-last finish in 2010.
Key Matchup: New Zealand
Why: While Argentina has little chance of besting Wales in their first group (the country walloped them 20-3 in 2010), if they can beat New Zealand and then snag a win against the inexperienced Russians (playing in their first tournament), they’ll be in good shape to advance to a high second-round grouping. - The Iroquois Nationals (Native Americans originated the sport, in part) return to the world stage. After being barred from entering host nation England during the 2010 world championship because of a passport dispute, this talented group will look to snatch a win in their first game against a team that might become a bitter rival.
Key Matchup: England
Why: Revenge is sweet. Passport issues aside, last time they squared off, the Iroquois bested the English 13-10. Look for them to force a similar result in this opening-round match. - In the tournament’s 47-year history, only the United States and Canada have hoisted the championship trophy. (The United States claimed the title during the last tournament in 2010.) Expect an edge-of-your-seat fight: Four of these championship matches have been decided by three points or less, including two overtimes.
Key Matchup: United States vs. Canada
Why: Duh.
Bonus trivia: Nine teams will make debut appearances at the world championship this year, the most single-tournament rookie additions in the event’s history.
Key Division: The Grey Division
Why: Only one of the group’s teams, the Czech Republic, has experienced more than two tournaments. While Poland makes its second appearance, first-timers Costa Rica and Turkey make up the other half of what should be a completely up-in-the-air division.
