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Oct. 9, 2003
Charlottesville, Va. – Men’s lacrosse coach Dom Starsia announces defenseman Brett Hughes, goalie Tillman Johnson, midfielder Ted Lamade, and attackman Justin Mullen have been selected team captains for the 2004 season.
Hughes, a senior from Upper Arlington, Ohio., is one of the top defensemen in the nation. Regularly assigned to cover the team’s top offensive threat, he has consistently shut down some of the best attackmen in the nation throughout his career. Last season he was a second-team All-American and allowed his man to score more than one goal just three times. His 50 ground balls last season were second among the ACC’s close d-men.
Johnson, a senior from Annapolis, Md., is regarded as the nation’s top goalie. He turned in one of the most spectacular playoff performances ever to lead the Cavaliers to the national championship last spring. He took home virtually every major award, including the USILA’s Player of the Year and the Goalie of the Year Awards. Johnson set a school record with 205 saves and is second in Virginia history with 530 career saves, 23 behind Rodney Rullman.
Lamade, a senior from Chevy Chase, Md., has been hampered by injuries the last two seasons which have limited his playing time. However, he has not let that prevent him from being making valuable contributions toward the team’s success. He had an outstanding fall season and is expected to be a significant contributor in the midfield this season.
Mullen, a senior from Annapolis, Md., is one of the team’s most vocal performers while filling the role as the team’s fourth attackman. He frequently gives the offense a lift when in the game due to his aggressive play. Last season he played in 15 games and scored three goals. In his career he has scored 13 goals and added five assists.
“I am very pleased to announce the captains for the 2003-2004 men’s lacrosse team. The leadership issue is a critical one in college sports and these four young men have always been willing to assume that responsibility throughout their careers,” said Starsia in making the announcement. “They offer to their teammates a range of experience and knowledge. It is the goal of this 2004 team to win consecutive NCAA national championships for the first time in school history. The selection of our captains is a strong, initial step.”
The Cavaliers open defense of their national championship with a road game at Drexel in Philadelphia, Pa., on Feb. 21.