By Robert L. Gray

 

The Championship game is this weekend! I hope to see you all at Meagher’s Irish Pub, Saturday July 19, 7pm where I predict that the USA will win its ELEVENTH World Championship in Lacrosse. It has been an exhilarating week of play at the Lacrosse World Championships in Denver, Colorado. Amazing shots, bone crushing hits, and lightening fast end-to-end transitions have provided a fantastic spectators experience of the fattest game on two feet. Severe afternoon thunderstorms have been plaguing the games over the last few days, causing for some very long days and late games for the athletes, but it has not dampened the quality of play or spectator enthusiasm.

 

The key matchups and elite players from all the competing teams have not disappointed, and the stars of Team USA have put them in a dominating position throughout the tournament. That being said, several other nations have also put in excellent performances. European teams have put in a great showing with Scotland and Germany winning their brackets and many of them are moving on to the final rounds over the next couple days. The region of the world with the biggest challenges in the tournament have been the teams from Asia with Korea, China and Thailand finishing last in their bracket. The notable exception is Japan which was in the elite Blue division containing the top six teams in the world. In spite of finishing only 1-4 in their division, they put in some very respectable performances and will be a team that should continue to provide challenges for future opponents.

 

 Fan favorite, the Iroquois Nation has been great and by losing a very close game to Canada showed they are a team to be reckoned with. Their victory today over Scotland gives them a rematch opportunity against Canada tomorrow.  If they win that one, the Championship game will be Team USA vs the Iroquois Nation. Win or lose on the scoreboard, that will be a huge emotional and symbolic victory for the Native American team representing the sport woven into the very fabric of their nation. While Canada is probably the better team, I must admit I am pulling for the underdog Native American team to get to the finals against the USA. So if you haven’t had the opportunity yet, it’s not too late. ESPNU and ESPN3 will be airing many games over the next three days. Scan over last week’s blog to brush up on the rules, but on your red, white and blue and meet me at Meagher’s Saturday night to help the Bridgeport Indians and Talons lacrosse teams support Team USA in their pursuit of another great championship performance. USA! USA! USA!