Considering how much I support Major League Lacrosse, I think that it is very important for the game's alleged "best players" to be active as long as they are in their athletic prime. This is especially true for players who not only endorse, but have a signature line of equipment from one of the league's sponsors (Brine). I am of course referring to former Boston Cannon, Mikey Powell.
Born in October of 1982, Mikey Powell should be at the peak of his professional lacrosse career. Following in the footsteps of other pro athletes like Michael Jordan and LeBron James, Powell has an endorsement deal (including a signature line) with one of the sport's biggest manufacturers, Brine. His deal is so lucrative that he is one of the few laxers in the position to be involved with lacrosse full time. Unlike many of his peers, Powell does not have to work a "regular" job. At 26, he should be heading out for his sixth season as a pro. Instead, he is sitting out for the third time.
At Syracuse University, Powell was a stud. He was a four time all American. He remains the only player to ever win the Jack Turnbull Award four times. He was a Tewaaraton Trophy finalist four consecutive years, and won the sports' most prestigious award twice. As a senior, he set the all time leading scorer mark at 'Cuse with 307 points (tied fourth all-time NCAA). When Mikey decided not to go pro at the end of the 2004 college season, people were shocked.
Ultimately 2004 would be merely the first time Mikey sat out a pro season. After being signed by Brine (with his brothers) to a very lucrative contract in 2005, Mikey rejoined the league. As part of the endorsement deal, all three Powells had to play pro lacrosse. When Warrior & MLL owner New Balance bought Brine, everything looked secure for Mikey. Unfortunately, Baby Mikey had other plans; he sat out the 2006 season.
In 2007 he agreed to join MLL, this time with the Boston Cannons. Brine moved forward with an exclusive Mikey Powell line. 2008 saw Powell joined by Hopkins standout Paul Rabil. With this level of talent, the future looked bright. When the 2010 shake up reduced the MLL to six teams, Powell & Rabil looked to be joined by some more strong talent and Boston had the potential to be the team to beat. Unfortunately, Mikey decided for the third time to not play lacrosse. Brine still unveiled its new version of the Mikey Powell line (to be released this summer) despite the fact that the 26 year old is not playing pro lacrosse at all this season and will not be playing for the US team at the 2010 World Championships.
Mikey Powell's behavior is a major reason people don't take MLL seriously. He has the power to turn on the lamp and draw more fans yet chooses to be a douche. Thanks Mikey!
