October 5, 2011 – BOSTON, MA– The Boston Cannons of Major League Lacrosse (MLL), the premier professional outdoor lacrosse league, today announced Bill Daye will be stepping down as the team’s head coach. Daye has been head coach for six seasons, beginning in 2006, and led the team to its first MLL championship in 2011.
“This was obviously a very difficult decision, however it was one that was made based on my desire to spend more time with my family, especially with our girls, Adison and Ollie, growing up so quickly,” said Daye. “I would like to thank Matt Dwyer and the ownership group for giving me an opportunity to be part of this great organization for nine years.”
Daye joined the Cannons as a player in MLL’s inaugural season in 2001 and was named an MLL All-Star and the Cannons MVP for his performance in goal. After an injury ended his playing career shortly into the 2002 season, Daye returned to the Cannons as an assistant coach in 2005. He was promoted to head coach the following season.
“Billy Daye made his first contribution to the Cannons in 2000 when he convinced me that if we brought professional lacrosse to Boston, we could attract the best players in the world,” said Cannons Founding Owner Matt Dwyer. “The former NCAA Champion goalie backed up his claim by becoming our first MLL All-Star in net. What better way to culminate his on-field professional career than by bringing the Steinfeld Trophy to Title Town this season? He will be part of the Boston Cannons forever.”
“I want to thank the players I’ve had the privilege of coaching for the past six years,” continued Daye, “especially the 2011 team, which came together to capture the Cannons’ first championship. And I can’t forget about the unbelievable fan base we have in Boston. It’s truly been a pleasure every year, at each home game, playing in front of the Cannons faithful. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank my wife Alison for being my number one supporter for my nine years involved in Major League Lacrosse and allowing me to pursue my dream.”
In his six seasons at the helm, Daye amassed a 43-29 record, bringing the Cannons to the post-season four times. In 2010 and 2011, the Cannons ended the regular season with best record in the league, and this past season Daye was the first Cannons coach to be named MLL Coach of the Year.
“On behalf of the Cannons front office and our thousands of Cannons fans, I want to thank Coach Daye for all he has done to support and grow our organization and for bringing us a championship in his final season,” said Kevin Barney, Boston Cannons General Manager. “His dedication and commitment to this team will surely be missed.”
Until the Cannons name his successor, Daye will remain involved with the team in an advisory capacity, consulting on decisions such as naming the 10- or 12-player protected list, due October 12 in advance of the December MLL Expansion Draft. The Cannons have begun an extensive search to find the next Cannons head coach. Interested applicants should contact General Manager Kevin Barney at [email protected].
About the Boston Cannons
The Boston Cannons are one of the founding franchises of Major League Lacrosse, the premier professional outdoor lacrosse league. They began play in June of 2001 and currently host home games at Harvard Stadium in Allston. They won their first MLL Championship on August 28, 2011. Season tickets for the 2012 season are now on sale starting at only $84 for seven Cannons home games. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 617.746.9933 or visit www.BostonCannons.com.
About Major League Lacrosse (MLL)
Major League Lacrosse (MLL), the premier professional outdoor lacrosse league, was founded by Jake Steinfeld and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Major League Lacrosse commenced play in June of 2001 and will enter its twelfth season in 2012. MLL has continued to lead the sport of lacrosse into the mainstream of competitive team sports. The league is made up of eight teams: The Boston Cannons, Charlotte Hounds, Chesapeake Bayhawks, Denver Outlaws, Hamilton Nationals, Long Island Lizards, Ohio Machine and Rochester Rattlers.
The 2012 MLL Collegiate Draft will take place on January 13, 2012 in Philadelphia, PA. The 2012 season will commence on April 28, 2012. More information about the league can be found at www.majorleaguelacrosse.com.
