Combs named Machine head coach

The Chicago Machine has promoted John Combs to head coach for the 2008 Major League Lacrosse season.

Combs, an assistant coach in 2007, replaces Lelan Rogers, who accepted a full-time assistant role at Syracuse University, where he was already Director of Lacrosse Operations.

Combs has close ties to the Chicago lacrosse scene, having led New Trier High School to three consecutive state titles and compiling a 54-5 record during that period. He joined the Machine last season, helping Rogers post a 3-9 record following the team's winless inaugural campaign in 2006.

"Last year we built some momentum," Combs said. "We got stronger and learned a few lessons for the future. Mainly we laid the foundation for growth. I think the important thing is going to be continuity. We need to carry the developments we made last year over into this coming season."

Last season the Machine boasted nine rookies and the youngest average player age in Major League Lacrosse, which means Combs inherits a relatively unseasoned group.

"Those young players gained a lot of experience and got a lot of quality time on the field," said Combs. "Last year we had talent but not a lot of experience. Now we have talent combined with some experience."

Picking up where it left off in 2007, which included a 3-3 home record, was essential to the Machine.

"We made strides last year," said John Meister, Chicago president and general manager. "We think John is the perfect candidate to build on the successes we had and keep us moving forward."

In addition to his success at New Trier, Combs brings a strong college coaching resume to the Machine. He held head coaching positions at NCAA Division III Plattsburgh and Division I Holy Cross. In 2002 Combs served as offensive coordinator at Division I Colgate.

The Machine plays its home games at Toyota Park in Bridgeview. Its 2007 outdoor schedule featured 12 games from mid May to mid August.