Knoxville, Tennessee - University of Tennessee head men’s lacrosse coach Matt Synowiez announced today that the 2012 team captains are seniors Mike Kinsey, Jordan Blazer, Matt Cooper and Tyler “Woody” Kidd. “The four young men have done a phenomenal job of representing the University of Tennessee and the Tennessee men’s lacrosse program since they each arrived on this campus. Each individual brings a different leadership style to the program and I think that is essential for great leadership in a team environment. I am proud to have gotten to know each one of them and look forward to seeing them lead our program in 2012."
Mike Kinsey (Franklin, Tenn.—Ravenwood HS/ Air Force) has been an anchor for the Vols defense the past two seasons since he transferred from the Air Force Academy in 2010. Kinsey’s aggressive play allows him to be successful in extending pressure on opponents in order to cause turnovers. His athletic ability is also apparent with his ability to carry the ball in transition and set up Tennessee’s fast break transition plays. Kinsey was a 2010 and 2011 SELC Division 1 all conference honorable mention at his position.
Jordan Blazer (Libertyville, Ill.—Libertyville HS) is a second year captain entering his fourth year as a starting goalie for Tennessee. One of UT’s two senior goalies Blazer is undoubtedly one of the team’s fastest and most athletic players. His speed allows him to be a “one-man” clearing machine, but also possesses the skill to accurately hit his open teammates with lead passes during fast breaks or clears. He also has consistently held one of the highest save percentages in the MCLA. Blazer was an honorable mention SELC Division 1 all conference goalie as a sophomore in the spring 2010 season.
Matt Cooper (Brentwood, Tenn.—Brentwood HS) looks to finish his career at Tennessee on a high note after spending some of last season injured due to offseason knee surgery. Cooper returns to the team feeling 100% once again and hopes to display his talents once more as one of the team’s top face off specialists and defensive midfielders. Built with runner’s speed, Cooper has the ability to move the ball up the field and his vision allows him to make successful passes or go in for the goal. Cooper also has been more vocal since returning from a semester abroad as he makes every effort to know everyone new to the Tennessee lacrosse program. Cooper is also the Tennessee lacrosse program’s Community Service Coordinator and is in his second season in that role.
Woody Kidd (Burke, VA—Lake Braddock Secondary) is Tennessee’s most experienced offensive midfielder with three seasons of starting experience. A natural lefty, Kidd has the ability to be an effective scorer with either hand, and his versatility and creativity is a tremendous asset for the Tennessee program. At 6’0, 185 lbs. Kidd has improved his defensive skills during his time at Tennessee and will be asked to take more of a role on the defensive side of the field in 2012. As one of the most vocal players on the team, Kidd will represent the pulse of this year’s class of captains as they look to lead their team to a successful 2012 season.