Rogers Named Chicago Machine Head Coach

CHICAGO, Ill. - The Chicago Machine has announced that Lelan Rogers will serve as the team’s head coach when the 2007 Major League Lacrosse (MLL) season opens. Rogers, whose new position will not interfere with his current role as the director of operations for the Syracuse men's lacrosse team, has more than 20 years of collegiate coaching experience.

"I am very pleased to accept the head coaching position with the Chicago Machine," Rogers said. "I believe my background and experience in collegiate coaching and operations will be beneficial to the development of the team for this next season."

Rogers will be joined by assistant coach Ted Garber, a Machine assistant during the 2006 inaugural season. Rogers will begin his coaching tomorrow as he participates in the MLL Supplemental Draft. With the top pick Chicago is on the front lines to build a contending team for the upcoming season.

"You have to take things one game at a time," Rogers said. "And the supplemental draft will be my first game. As a coach, you're only as good as your players."

"A coach like Lelan Rogers has the ability to work with the front office to solidify the organizational foundation while creating a positive environment for the players both on and off the field to ensure a successful season," said Chicago Machine President John H. Meister. "With his vast coaching experience at the collegiate level and his current position at Syracuse as Director of Lacrosse Operations, we are confident that Rogers will provide our team with the professionalism, organization, and leadership we need to succeed."

Rogers' head coaching career began in 1991 when he first appeared as the head coach for the Ohio Wesleyan Men's Lacrosse Team. From 1991-1999, Rogers led his team to seven (7) NCAA III playoff appearances and an overall record of 109-33. In 1993, Ohio Wesleyan played in the NCAA Division III championship game and during his nine-year coaching stint at the University, the men's lacrosse team played in five national semifinals. Rogers earned six NCAC titles and was also named NCAC Coach of the Year four times.

Rogers left Ohio Wesleyan to pursue a job in the corporate world, but his love of lacrosse soon brought him back to the game as head coach at SUNY-Cortland where he coached the team for five years. While at SUNY-Cortland, Rogers achieved a 76-17 (.817) record, five NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, and four SUNYAC titles.

Syracuse University Athletics

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