3 Machine all-stars ready for MLL's biggest night
Although they'll be traveling together to Denver, the journey to Thursday's 2008 Major League Lacrosse All-Star Game in Denver has been a different experience for three members of the Chicago Machine.
Attackman Kevin Leveille, rookie midfielder Steven Brooks and goalie Mike Gabel have each been selected to take part in the event (9 p.m. Thursday, ESPN2).
For Leveille, the trip has become an annual experience. This season's selection marks the fourth consecutive year Leveille has been named an MLL all-star.
Leveille currently is tied for first in the league in goals with 27. He is second in the league in points with 36 and is in the midst of a scoring streak that has seen him score at least one goal in every game since 2004.
"They are each a little different," said Leveille of his all-star experiences. "They've changed the format the last couple of years so that now it's East against West. But it's always a great game. There's definitely a high level of competition out there on the field."
For Brooks and Gabel, this will be their first experience as all-stars.
Brooks, a Libertyville native, has made a quick transition to the pro game after being drafted from a Syracuse squad that won the 2008 NCAA National Championship. He leads all MLL rookies in scoring with 26 points, including 17 goals, and is one of only two rookies selected as an all-star.
His success has come as a surprise, even to himself.
"Before the season, I just planned on doing what I could do to help and trying to adjust," said Brooks. "I've just tried to follow in (Kevin) Leveille's footsteps, and I guess it's been paying off well. I've been lucky."
In addition to playing in the game, Brooks will take part in the Bud Light Skills Competition as a participant in the Fastest Shot contest. It's a challenge Brooks says he is excited to try.
"I can't wait," said Brooks. "I want the bragging rights against the other guys I'm competing against. I'd love to win it."
Gabel, in his third season and among the league leaders in multiple goalie statistical categories, will be faced with the unenviable task of stopping the league's best shooters. The competitor in him is looking forward to facing the "best of the best."
"Every time I've ever played, I have wanted to be challenged," said Gabel. "(In the All-Star Game) every time someone shoots, it will be a very fast shot and a very accurate shot. So I'm excited. I can't wait to face them or try to stop them. That's how I get my rush for my position."
Chicago lacrosse fans will have a chance to see all three All-Stars in person when the Chicago Machine hosts the Los Angeles Riptide on 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Toyota Park. Ticket information is available at www.chicagomachine.com.