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What Will Dawson Do In His Debut?

November 29, 2007 - National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Portland Lumberjax News Release


PORTLAND, November 29, 2007 - The wait is almost over. One of the biggest signings in Portland LumberJax history will soon make his much anticipated debut. Forward Dan Dawson will first appear as a member of the Jax this Saturday, December 1st during the second weekend of training camp for the Jax. Morning practice runs from 11 a.m.-12:40 p.m. and evening practice begins at 8:05 p.m. and ends at 9:45 p.m. Both practices are at the Tualatin Indoor Soccer Center.

Selected first overall in the 2007 National Lacrosse League Dispersal Draft, Dawson brings a loaded playing resume with him to Portland. The three-time All-Pro was second in the NLL in points (107), third in goals scored (47) and tied for second in assists (60) during the 2007 season. Dawson scored at least three points in every game he appeared in last season and validates the Jax as a playoff contender.

"Physically, I expect Dan to step right in and handle everything well," said Head Coach/General Manager Derek Keenan. "He's a player that takes great care of himself, so fitness is not an issue. There may be a bit of rust in his stick, but a player of his skill won't take long to iron that out."

After seeing early signs of cohesiveness during the first weekend of camp, Keenan is now looking for players to distinguish themselves. With only 23 open spots on the team, competition will only grow fiercer as practice continues.

"It will be even more competitive because all 30 players will be at camp", said Keenan. "We decided as a staff to not release any players after the first camp for a couple of reasons. First, I was impressed with everyone. Second, in all fairness, I would like to see the entire group together."

Despite the early signs of rust that much of the team displayed, Keenan felt the first weekend went well. However, The LumberJax coach wants the bar raised.

"The kinks are worked out now and guys should be playing full bore", said Keenan. "Ideally, we would like to have our team picked after this weekend, which means seven player releases. Everyone is aware of this, so the intensity level will be extremely high."

The season and home opener for the Jax is on January 12, 2008 against the New York Titans at the Rose Garden Arena at 7:30 p.m. That leaves the Jax less than a month-and-a-half to get into game shape.

"Most of our players are physically ready to play", said Keenan. "However, we have a long way to go in terms of implementing our system. That's why we would like to be close to having the team picked after this weekend."

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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.

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