Casey Powell Will Not Return To MLL This Summer

From Inside Lacrosse. Written By Adam O'Neill

Casey Powell will not return to Major League Lacrosse this summer, instead opting to focus on competition with Team USA at the World Lacrosse Championships.

In a statement released to Inside Lacrosse, Powell stated: “The opportunity to participate in the 2006 World Lacrosse Championships with many of the finest athletes to have ever played our sport is truly a highlight of my lacrosse career.  For the next few months I will focus my efforts to help Team USA prepare to defend our 2002 World Championship.”

The decision comes as a blow to the Rochester Rattlers. Powell is one of the most recognizable figures in the history of lacrosse. Last year he finished second on the Rattlers with 57 points while playing in just 12 games. Powell leaves as the MLL’s all-time assist leader (108 points) and is the second-best points getter in league history (amassing 248 points).

“Regretfully, this commitment (Team USA), combined with my work and camps, will not allow me to devote the time required to play for the Rochester Rattlers for the 2006 season,” said Powell through his statement. “ I will miss my teammates and fans of the MLL and wish them all the best.”

While at Syraucuse, Powell was a four-time All-America selection and was named the Most Outstanding Player in DI lacrosse in 1997 and 1998.

Powell has numerous existing obligations in the lacrosse community. Last fall he and his brothers, Ryan and Mikey, started Powell Brothers Lacrosse Company, a company that conducts camps and develops new training techniques and products. Powell is also on the Research and Development team at lacrosse equipment manufacturer Brine, Inc.

Powell remains with both entities.

”Brine, the first name in lacrosse and Powell Brothers Lacrosse Camps have been very generous and supportive giving me the chance to accomplish Team USA ’s goal,” he said.

This marks the second major player that has opted not to play in recent weeks. Just a week ago, Baltimore face-off man Paul Cantabene said he would not be back with the Bayhawks this summer, citing increasing off-field commitments.

Casey played on the Rattlers last summer with his brother Ryan, an attackman for the team.