University of Massachusets Athletics
UMass Men's Lacrosse Holds 2008 Team Banquet
September 29, 2008 | Men's Lacrosse
Sept. 29, 2008
Amherst, Mass. - The UMass lacrosse team held its annual team banquet on Saturday afternoon at the Campus Center. Coach Greg Cannella presented the Minutemen with team awards.
The Offensive MVP went to Tim Balise who tallied 33 goals and 39 points last season for the Minutemen. For the second year running, Brian Danvers was awarded the Most Valuable Defensive Player for his stifling defensive skills.
Paul Manesis was honored with the Goose Garber Award, the most prestigious award on the men's lacrosse team. In honor of legendary coach Dick Garber, the Goose Garber goes to the unsung hero. It signifies the most unselfish player, the ultimate teammate, and the leading contributor to UMass lacrosse. Dick Garber's grandson, and former UMass lacrosse standout, Brett Garber presented Manesis with this award.
Zach Rodgers, a rising sophomore from Baldwin Harbor, N.Y., earned Rookie of the Year, leading the team with 18 assists and second on the team with points scored at 27. Rodgers also received the Robin Food Award for Most Assists. Dr. Curt Conner of the Chemical Engineering Program at UMass presented Rodgers with this award.
Top reserve defensemen Brennan Mack was given the title of Most Improved Player for the second year in a row. Mack worked incredibly hard to improve his skills and footwork, scooping up eight groundballs over the course of the season.
Sean Krygier was given the Sopracasa, or Heart and Soul Award. Starting in all 14 games last season, this senior embodies a strong, consistent close defender who rarely makes a mistake.
The Hammer Award, given to the player with the hardest hits, was awarded to Diogo Godoi, who grabbed 27 groundballs last season.
