TEL AVIV, ISRAEL — The Israel Lacrosse Association has announced a three-game exhibition schedule for the men’s national team, including the blue-and-white’s first ever home international, against Turkey at Ashkelon Municipal Stadium on July 4th.
Israel will also play neutral-site games against the Iroquois Nationals, who are widely regarded as a top-five team in the world, as well as Team Philippines, who are hoping to obtain FIL membership in time to compete in the 2014 World Championship.
Israel has also announced their roster for the Turkey match; rosters for the August exhibitions will be announced following the official national team tryout, held July 9-10 at the Wingate Institute, Israel’s National Centre for Physical Education and Sport, located in Netanya.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to evaluate new players and prepare for Denver with real game action,” said Israel head coach Bill Beroza. “Aside from taking the field against some very tough competition, we’re thrilled to showcase the sport in our first ever home international in Israel.”
The 2014 FIL Men’s World Championship will be held in Denver, Colo., at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, home of the MLS’ Colorado Rapids.
Israel is 1-0 all-time against Turkey, earning a 13-9 exhibition win last June at Sadi Gülçelik Sports Center in Istanbul.
August will mark the first ever meeting between Israel/Iroquois, and Israel/Philippines. The Phillipines are not currently an FIL member, but have competed internationally against teams from South America and are building momentum to participate in the 2014 World Championship.
2013 Exhibition Schedule
Thu, Jul 4 at 7:30 PM – Israel vs. Turkey (Asheklon, Israel)
Sat, Aug 17 at 8:15 PM – Israel vs. Iroquois Nationals (Baltimore, MD, USA)
Sun, Aug 18 at 12:00 PM – Israel vs. Philippines (Baltimore, MD, USA)