Chi-Town Welcomes The Machine
Published on February 1, 2006 under Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
Chicago Machine News Release
Chicago - The Chicago Machine-Chicago's new professional lacrosse franchise-was formally introduced today at a press conference held at the ESPN Zone in downtown Chicago. In attendance were the ownership, Machine coaching staff, Machine players, area lacrosse coaches, many television networks and numerous other members of the press.
The fastest growing sport in the country has now found a place at the professional level in one of the nation's most acclaimed sports cities. The Chicago Machine is one of 10 teams of Major League Lacrosse (MLL).
"If you love hitting, scoring, and speed - you'll love lacrosse," said founder of Major League Lacrosse, Jake "Body by Jake" Steinfeld, while speaking at the press conference.
Representing the ownership, the Chicago Lacrosse Group LLC, was Dave Connelly who was very thankful of Jake Steinfeld and wanted to make known the intent of the Chicago Machine to become very involved in the Chicagoland lacrosse community.
The Machine will play home games at Benedictine University in Lisle under the guidance of Head Coach and General Manager Kevin Finneran, an alumnus of Ohio Wesleyan University, veteran of five seasons as a standout player with Philadelphia and Long Island of Major League Lacrosse, and a two time league champion. "I want to thank the ownership team for giving me the opportunity to coach the Machine," stated Finneran as he addressed the audience. "Lacrosse is booming in Chicago among youth and high school athletes and we are excited to bring the sport to the next level."
Among the players sure to stand out for the Machine in this historic inaugural season is Kevin Leveille, acquired from the Boston Cannons after an All-American career at the University of Massachusetts. Leveille will be joined in uniform by US World Cup team members Doug Shanahan, 2002 World Games MVP, and Todd Rassas, Notre Dame grad of 1998.
Competition begins on May 20th in Denver at Invesco Field when the Machine challenges the Denver Outlaws. The inaugural home game will be on June 3rd at the Machine's home turf at Benedictine.
The Machine will offer a variety of seating options. Ticket information is readily available at 847-424-1390 and www.chicagomachine.com. Major League Lacrosse games can be seen on ESPN2 and the Chicago Machine will have 3 games on the network this season.
Major League Lacrosse Stories from February 1, 2006
- Chi-Town Welcomes The Machine - Chicago Machine
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
