LumberJax Newsletter

March 20, 2009 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Portland Lumberjax News Release


The Portland LumberJax already feature one of the most physically imposing lineups in the National Lacrosse League with an average height of 6'2" and average weight of 207 lbs. Now, with the help of Michael Skogg and his Elite Kettlebell Gym, Portland has the league's most fit lineup.

For the past eight weeks, Jax players that reside in town have been going to Elite Kettlebell Gym, which is conveniently located at 11606 SW Pacific Highway across from the Tigard Fred Meyer. Each day, Skogg develops a different hour-long routine for the players.

The workout begins with a light stretch before the players jump into their work with the kettlebell. Developed by the Russians generations ago, the kettlebell is a small, cast iron weight that resembles a small bowling ball with a thicker handle than a dumbbell. While squatting, athletes grip the kettlebell and then begin to swing it from the ground over their head. Skogg also has ropes, logs and punching bags to employ a full body workout.

By emphasizing proper posture, the kettlebell builds a rock hard core that makes athletes less injury prone and better suited to absorb shock and physical contact. In a sport like lacrosse, that's huge.

"This is my eighth season in the NLL and I've never had a better workout," said forward Peter Morgan. "In only an hour, I've worked every muscle in my body."

A former United States Special Forces Agent, Skogg first worked with the kettlebell while he was stationed in Scotland. Like Morgan, Skogg was looking for an intense workout in a short period of time.

"While I was in Scotland, I was working out a lot and began to train with a Highland Games competitor," said Skogg. "He turned me onto the kettlebell and I've never looked back. There's not a better workout. It works your cardio, develops core stability and has a therapeutic value."

With over 20 years of experience as a Conditioning Coach and 15+ years of experience with the kettlebell, Skogg has become the face of the kettlebell. He's the country's Nationally Recognized Kettlebell Instructor and will soon be seen all over airwaves as the leading endorser for Weider kettlebells.

Opened from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Elite Kettlebell Gym is the future workout routine for anyone. The Russians have successfully utilized kettlebell training for generations. With Skogg as its face, kettlebell has made its way to the U.S. and athletes all over are benefiting.

"It's been unbelievable for Michael and his staff to welcome us in," said forward Cory Conway. "My body has really taken to it and hopefully the results continue."

"I've had various back issues over the years," said defenseman David Morgan. "I have not experienced any pain working with the kettlebell. In only an hour's time, I've worked my whole body and strengthened my core. For a lacrosse player, that's huge."

GIVE BLOOD, GET LACROSSE TICKETS

In celebration of American Red Cross' grand opening at their new location in Vancouver, the Portland LumberJax and American Red Cross have teamed up to give you the chance to give blood and get lacrosse tickets. Tomorrow, from 11:30-1:30 rookie goalie Matt Flindell and mascot Jaxon will be at 5109 NE 82nd Ave, Vancouver, WA 98662to celebrate the grand opening. Anyone who gives blood will be given a complimentary ticket to the Jax game on Sunday, March 29th at 3 p.m. against the rival San Jose Stealth.

The Red Cross will also be taking blood donations at their Portland Donor Center on Saturday, March 28th. Jax players and Jaxon will be on location to greet donors. Anyone who gives blood will also be given a complimentary ticket to the Jax game on the 29th.

Army National Guard and the Jax Team Up

We are pleased to have the National Guard Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 car inside the Rose Garden this Sunday, as fans will be able to take a picture with it throughout the game. The gates will be open at 1:30 for season ticket holders as a chance to avoid the lines and get your shot with the #88 car prior to the doors opening for the general audience. Almost Friday, featuring local active guardsmen in the Oregon Army National Guard, will also be playing inside the arena both before the game and for a halftime performance.



National Lacrosse League Stories from March 20, 2009


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