TUCSON, Ariz. -- The 2016 season for the Arizona men's lacrosse team is upon us and the team is off to a great start so far this preseason. The LaxCats brings back 23 returners combined with 25 new players. The roster is deep and talented, but more importantly, this year's returners are setting the proper foundation for a successful season.

“This group of guys is working its tail off and putting in the mental preparation to win the close games," said Arizona head coach Derek Pedrick. "I am excited for this group to see where we end up in a few months. For now, all we can worry about is ourselves and how we work. The main focus is getting better everyday and maximizing our opportunities in both practice and games.”

Arizona starts the season on Feb. 6 versus Utah Valley. The Laxcats are led by senior first team All-American Tanner Knego, who is back to lead the defense. Arizona also brings back two All-Americans on defense in seniors Nolan Baker and Jackson Pinney. Both have been starters for three years and are looking to lock down the defense.

The close defense will also rely on senior Griffin Goudreau, junior Greg Gautieri and freshman Barry Baker. Freshman long-stick middie Harrison Bunim and sophomores defensive middies Zach Joseph and Mark Babicke will lead the way at defensive midfield.

Arizona is hoping to have more production this year on the offensive side of the ball. The attack will be led by three newcomers: junior Jerome Rigor freshmen Winsor Mclean and Colton Lyold. Seniors Brett Burkholder and Keegan Jennings, along with sophomore Jeff Howard and freshman Connor Weisman will fight for time on attack as well.

The LaxCats midfield has experience and depth, led by senior Foster Bundy, who played attack last year and was an honorable mention All-American. Juniors Matt Lai and Christian Turri, along with sophomores Ryan Falbo, Zach Rogers, Brett Treude are all two way middies who can get up and down the field. Freshmen Brad Moeller and Shane Crownhart along with junior Alex Ternes will provide depth on the offensive end as well.

“We started off real strong so far," said Bundy, a captain on this year's squad. "We have a lot of new and younger guys, along with a very solid group of returners that are hungry to win. We know we have the talent, but its going to come down to how hard we grind and improve as the season progresses.”

Arizona has a 12-game schedule with seven opponents ranked in the preseason top 25 while the LaxCats are ranked No. 11. The first home game will be played this Saturday, Feb. 6 at home on Sitton Field. Game time is set for 3 p.m.

2016 Arizona Schedule