Moon Township, Pa. ? The Robert Morris University men's lacrosse team will be represented in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) by former Colonials Andrew Watt and Michael Fleming, as each were drafted by the league in the first and second round, respectively, this past weekend. Watt joins the Minnesota Swarm while Fleming will compete with the Toronto Rock.
Watt and Fleming were chosen, along with 74 other players, and represent the best lacrosse talent across the United States and parts of Canada. The two athletes are the second and third players at Robert Morris to be drafted by the NLL.
“Our school and lacrosse program are very proud of the four years that these young men put into Robert Morris University,” said head coach Kenneth “Bear” Davis. “I am very glad that these two have the opportunity to keep living the dream and play lacrosse on the professional level. In our short period of history it is great to have had three players now drafted in the NLL.”
A former Robert Morris attack, Watt was chosen eighth by the Minnesota Swarm in the first round. He led the Colonials in points throughout his career, earning a total of 121, which was 30 points more than the second-highest scorer on the team. He accumulated 86 goals and 35 assists during his four years at Robert Morris. After his Colonial career, Watt competed with the Kodiaks in the Major Series Lacrosse League.
“Andrew had a stellar career here for his four years,” said Davis. “His brute strength and shooting accuracy will bring a lot to the table in the indoor game. His work ethic improved each year and he deserves a spot in the NLL. He will be a great asset to the Swarm.”
The Toronto Rock used their first pick on Fleming, as he was chosen 17th overall in the second round of the draft. Prior to the draft, he competed with Watt in the MSL with the Kodiaks. Fleming was also a RMU men's lacrosse standout, finishing second in the career record books with 81 points, 43 goals and 38 assists.
“Fleming is a tremendous leader and incredible athlete,” said Davis. “The combination of stick speed, athletic ability and leadership will help him be a very successful player for the Toronto Rock.”
The Robert Morris men's lacrosse team, led by Davis, will open up its 2009 regular season Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, when it faces North Carolina.
