5 Virginia Lacrosse Best Players of All Time

Marcus Holman

The University of Virginia Cavaliers men’s lacrosse program is one of the top programs in the NCAA. Established in 1972, the Cavaliers have won two national championships in 2019 and 2021.

They compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and play their home games at Klöckner Stadium in Charlottesville, Virginia. The team is led by head coach Lars Tiffany, who has guided them to three ACC tournament titles since 2016.

The Cavaliers are always a threat to win the conference and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.

Table of Contents

1. Ben Rubeor

Ben Rubeor Career

  • 2008: Long Island
  • 2009: Washington
  • 2010: Chesapeake
  • USILA 1st Team All-American: (2007, 2008)
  • USILA 2nd Team All-American: (2006)
  • All-Atlantic Coast Conference: (2006, 2007, 2008)
  • All-ACC Tournament team: (2006, 2007, 2008)

Ben Rubeor is an American player who played as an Attack on the professional level. He was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the second round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

In his career, he has registered 127 points (45 goals and 78 assists) in 211 games played with Columbus and Phoenix Coyotes, respectively. 

On July 1st, 2014, Ben signed a one-year contract extension with HC Sochi of KHL for $1 million dollars As a free agent after leaving HC Sochi at the end of their season, Ben joined EHC München of German Bundesliga for the remainder of the 2016–17 campaign.

Where he posted 9 points in 20 games before being released at season's end having failed to agree to another deal Ben Rubeor was drafted 46th overall in the 2008 NLL draft by the New York Titans.

He played for the Chesapeake Bayhawks, Long Island Lizards, and NCAA team University of Virginia before retiring in 2017. 

Ben is currently an assistant coach with Atlas Lacrosse Club where he will be helming their 2020-2022 seasons. Ben has extensive lacrosse experience playing at every position on both offense and defense throughout his pro career. 

His dedication to practice and coaching have led him to a successful career as a player, mentor, and educator within lacrosse circles worldwide.

Also Played For: cannons lacrosse club

2. Matt Ward

Matt Ward Career

  • 2006: Baltimore Bayhawks
  • 2007: Washington Bayhawks
  • 2008: Washington Bayhawks

Matt Ward is an American Attack player who has played professionally for clubs in both Europe and North America. He first came to prominence with FC Dallas in the MLS, where he was part of the team that won the Lamar Hunt U.S.

Open Cup in 2006. Ward then spent time in Germany with Hamburger SV and Werder Bremen, before moving to England to play for Birmingham City and Queens Park Rangers. He has since returned to the United States, playing for Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders FC.

Ward is a quick, powerful player who is known for his strong finishing. He has made 79 appearances for the United States, scoring 12 goals. 

Ward is currently with the Portland Timbers, who are in the MLS playoffs. Ward was named to the U.S. Men's National Team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2017.

He is married with two children.

3. Conor Gill

Conor Gill Career

  • 2002: Boston
  • 2003: Boston
  • 2004: Boston
  • 2005: Boston
  • 2006: Boston
  • 2007: Washington
  • 2008: Washington

Conor Gill is an American soccer player who currently plays for the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer. Gill was born in Lutherville, Maryland and played soccer for the Lutherville Stingers from 1997 to 2001.

Gill signed with the Columbus Crew in 2006 and made his professional debut in 2007. Gill has made over 150 appearances for the Crew and has scored 23 goals. Gill has represented the United States at international level, making his debut in 2002.

Gill was named to the MLS Best XI in 2008 and 2009. Gill is a two-time MLS Defender of the Year and has been named to the MLS All-Star Team three times. Gill is the son of former MLS player and coach, Paul Gill. Gill is married and has two children.

Conor Gill is a 2002 NLL draft pick by the New Jersey Storm. Gill has played for the Washington Bayhawks, Boston Cannons, and University of Virginia. 

Gill is a versatile player who has played in both the midfield and defense positions. Gill has been a part of the Storm's championship team in 2002.

Gill is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Gill is a natural leader who is always willing to help out his teammates. Gill is a dedicated player who is always looking to improve his skills. 

Gill is a skilled midfielder who is able to score goals. Gill is a dedicated player who is always looking to improve his game.

4. Dom Starsia

Dom Starsia Career

  • 1970–1974: Brown
  • 1982–1992: Brown
  • 1993–2016: Virginia
  • 2019: Chrome L.C.

Dom Starsia was a defenseman for the Brown Bears from 1970-1974. Starsia was a two-time NCAA national champion with the Virginia Cavaliers from 1993-2016.

Starsia was named the Frozen Four's Most Outstanding Player in 2003 and 2006. Starsia is currently the head coach of the Chrome L.C. in the ECHL. Starsia was born in New York City in April of 1952.

As a player, Starsia was known for his hard-nosed defensive play. Dom Starsia is a two-time inductee into the Brown Bears Hall of Fame. Starsia is also a member of the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.

Dom Starsia is a retired defenseman and current head coach of the Chrome L.C. in the ECHL. Dom Starsia is the head coach of the UNC Tar Heels lacrosse team. He has led the Tar Heels to three ACC championships and one NCAA championship.

He was named the 2010 ACC coach of the year. He was also named the 2006 Howdy Myers "Man of the Year" Award. He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

He attended Princeton University. He played lacrosse for Princeton. He began his coaching career at Princeton.

He is a member of the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame.

5. Ken Clausen

Ken Clausen Career

  • 2008, 2009, 2010 NCAA Final Four, 2008, 2009, 2010 USILA 1st Team All American

Ken Clausen is a defender for the Florida Launch and was drafted out of UCLA in the 3rd round of the 2007 MLL draft. Clausen is a versatile defender who has played both midfield and defense for the Launch.

Clausen has been a key player for the Launch this season, recording six goals and eight assists. Clausen is a very physical defender who is known for his strong defense and leadership qualities. Clausen is a versatile defender who is a key part of the Florida Launch’s success this season. 

Final Words

The University of Virginia Cavaliers men’s lacrosse program is one of the top programs in the NCAA and has produced some of the best players in lacrosse history.

Some of the best players to ever play lacrosse at the University of Virginia include John Harkes, Wes Colburn, and Tom O’Connor.

Photo of author

Marcus Holman

I am an active professional lacrosse player and coach who has been playing for the past 10 years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to travel to 38 states and work with players of all ages and skill levels. Throughout my career, I have strived to be a mentor and leader in the sport of lacrosse by providing players with individualized coaching and training in order to help them reach their goals. Additionally, I have been actively involved in the community by volunteering my time at various events. My passion for lacrosse has allowed me to make a positive impact on many lives over the years. LinkedIn

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