(Photo by Anna Scipione)

ATLANTA – After leading the Lumberjacks to their first SLC Division II championship and first invitation to nationals, Northern Arizona junior attackman Raphael Vargas earns Commanding Performance of the Week powered by Under Armour for the period ending April 28.

In the semifinals against San Diego, the Litchfield Park, Ariz., product struck for two goals and two assists, leading the ‘Jacks to an 11-9 victory and a trip to the conference finals.

Facing UC San Diego in the title tilt, Vargas rallied Northern Arizona from an early deficit with a goal and four assists, factoring in on 71 percent of the Lumberjacks production in the 7-5 victory.

“Raphael turned it on when it mattered most,” said Northern Arizona coach Will Lawlor. “His competitive spirit embodies Lumberjack lacrosse, and the energy he brought was contagious all weekend long.”

For his efforts in earning the Commanding Performance of the Week powered by Under Armour, Vargas will receive a new Under Armour Command Head – a $100 value. Under Armour is the proud sponsor of the MCLA.

Under Armour Honor Roll

Jay Healey, Sr. – Stonehill
In the Skyhawks upset of Bridgewater State in the CLC first round, Healy delivered four goals and an assist in the one-goal victory.

Davis Nelson, Jr. – Rice
Playing with a thin bench against Missouri State in the finals, Nelson struck for four goals, grabbed seven ground balls and went 5-for-8 on faceoffs.

Charlie White, Fr. – Rhode Island
In a 3-0 week for the Rams that culminated in a CLC championship, the rookie combined for 10 goals and eight assists, including an 8-point title game performance.