Jax Sign Matt Holman

[Sonny]

PORTLAND - The Portland LumberJax have signed Matt Holman today for the 2007 season. A recent graduate from the University of Hartford, Holman was the Jax first pick in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) 2006 Entry Draft (second round, 20th overall).

The Toronto, Ontario native was a two-year co-captain (2005 and 2006) for the Hawks, ranking second on the team in scoring last year with 20 goals and 11 assists for 21 points. As a four year letterwinner, Holman competed in 60 games and finished with a career of 85 points (64 goals, 21 assists). The mid-field lacrosse standout recorded 17 multi-goal games which included nine hat tricks.

"We were fortunate enough that Matt was still available in the second round of the Entry Draft," said Head Coach and General Manager Derek Keenan. "We think Matt can step in and contribute offensively right away. He is an excellent shooter and will add an element of quickness to our offense."

Entering his senior year with a 3.46 grade point average, Holman was also recognized for his studies, being named to the America East All-Academic Team in 2006. He was a four-time America East Academic Honor Roll selection (3.0 GPA or higher) and a Commissioner's Honor Roll selection (3.5 GPA or higher) in 2003 and 2004.

The Jax have now signed Adam Bysouth, Rich Morgan, Ray Guze, Mike Hominuck, Ryder Bateman, Jed Prossner, D.J. Driscoll and Simon Robillard while receiving rights to Scott Stapleford and Tyler Heavenor. Dallas Eliuk, Pat Jones, Brodie Merrill, Peter Morgan and Ryan Powell are entering the second season of their individual two-year contracts. The LumberJax training camp takes place in mid-November in Vancouver, B.C where all returning players and new signees will compete for a position on the Jax roster for the upcoming 2007 season.