MLL New York Lizards

Q & A with NY Lizards Defenseman Joe Fletcher

September 28, 2015 - Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
New York Lizards News Release


The year 2015 was a landmark season for the MLL Champion New York Lizards. Carried by eight straight wins to start the season, the Lizards finished first in the MLL standings. Then in the playoffs, they participated in one of the most intense games in MLL history that was won by a Matt Gibson goal at 2:46 in overtime. One week later, they capped off the magical season by defeating the Rochester Rattlers 15-12 in the MLL Championship game. In addition to all the team success, the Lizards produced five members of the All-MLL team. Paul Rabil, Rob Pannell, Greg Gurenlian, Joe Fletcher, and Drew Adams all received this very deserving honor. However, the accolades did not stop there. Fletcher was named 2015 Warrior Defensive Player of the year, Adams was named 2015 MLL Maverick Goalie of the year, and Gurenlian took home the 2015 MLL Coca-Cola MVP, 2015 FOAthlete of the year, and 2015 MLL Sportsmanship Player of the Year Award.

In wake of this outstanding season, we caught up with New York Lizard and MLL Defensive Player of the Year Joe Fletcher. Joe was kind enough to share some of his thoughts on the 2015 season and the upcoming 2016 campaign.

Q: How has the off-season been so far?

A: The off-season has been going well so far. I have been able to spend the past few months catching up with my family and friends, as well as have the chance to play some more basketball in my free time.

Q: Now that it has been 6 weeks since winning the Steinfeld Trophy, has it finally sunk in what you guys have accomplished this past year?

A: A little bit, but I'm now starting to get focused on things that should be improved upon for next season.

Q: During your run to the championship what would you say was the most challenging moment?

A: Managing the highs and lows. The season is long, but in order to stay focused it is important not to get too excited about some things or too down about other things. It's important to find balance.

Q: Was there any doubt in the locker room?

A: We tried our best to focus on our goals on a weekly basis and how we could be a better team each week. By improving each week, you put yourself in the best position at the end of the year.

Q: What was the most intense/crazy game you were a part of this season?

A: Our semi-final game against Boston was one of the most intense MLL games that I have ever been a part of. Each team wouldn't give up. And to have Drew make a point blank save from a shot coming from another goalie - at the final moments of a game - is something that I never thought that I would see.

Q: What was your favorite moment from the season?

A: Kevin Unterstein's goal with a long pole at Chesapeake right before halftime. He helped the team regain a lot of focus with that big play.

Q: At what moment did you realize this team had exactly what it took to win it all?

A: We try not to think about that during the year or look too far ahead. Instead, we try to focus on each week and understand areas that we needed to keep improving on.

Q: Now heading into the 2016 season, how do you keep the same drive and desire to win it all again?

A: To put last year behind. It was a great achievement, but now we are moving on to the next year. Having an edge, being competitive, and having strong desire is important.

Q: Where do you feel you need to make the most improvements headed into the season?

A: They are a lot of different areas where I need to work on in the off-season. Working on my footwork and strength are probably the two most important things. Also working on my stick skills and positioning will be important.

Q: Any personal goals headed into the season?

Help the team achieve its goal of winning another championship.

Like Joe, we're already preparing for next season. To stay up to date on team news, events and roster changes, follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Season Tickets for the 2016 season are now available! Visit NYLizards.com/Season-Tickets or call 1-855-NYLIZARDS to get yours today.

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Major League Lacrosse Stories from September 28, 2015


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