The accolades keep rolling in for Rutgers men's lacrosse this off-season. Three Scarlet Knights have once again been recognized for their standout performances, this time earning spots on the Inside Lacrosse Media All-American teams.
Leading the charge is Joe Juengerkes, who was named a Third Team All-American. A transfer from Princeton, Juengerkes stepped into a captain's role for the second straight year and anchored a defense that ranked among the nation's top 10 in scoring. His stat line—44 ground balls, 13 caused turnovers, and seven points—underscores his all-around impact. He's already taken his game to the next level, making his professional debut this weekend with the PLL's Maryland Whipsnakes.
Joining him on the list are Ryan Splaine and Colin Kurdyla, both named Honorable Mention All-Americans. This marks the second time this off-season that three Rutgers players have earned All-American nods, following the USA Lacrosse awards. (The final list, from the USILA Coaches, is still to come.)
Kurdyla was the engine of the Rutgers offense, leading the team with 30 goals, 27 assists, and 57 points. He also topped the Big Ten in points per game (3.8) and assists per game (1.8), earning him a spot on the All-Big Ten Second Team. His eight multi-goal games kept defenses on their heels all season.
Splaine provided veteran leadership in the midfield, finishing with 41 ground balls and 14 caused turnovers. His defining moment came earlier this year when he was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week after shutting down Johns Hopkins' All-American and Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, Matt Collison, in a double-overtime ranked win.
With three players already earning national recognition, the future is bright for Rutgers lacrosse—and their gear is looking just as sharp.
