ATLANTA – He was the most dominant player on the top-ranked and top-seeded program, earning Minn.-Duluth senior attackman Scott McNamara the MCLA Division II Player of the Year honor, which was announced on Thursday.

The Offensive Player of the Year in the Upper Midwest Lacrosse Conference (UMLC) and a First Team All-America, the Apple Valley, Minn., product led the Bulldogs to an 11-1 record and the No. 1 ranking for the entire regular season.

McNamara scored 46 goals and dished out 25 assists on the season and his 71 points led the conference. This production came against a 10-game Division II slate that featured nothing but ranked teams. In addition, the Bulldogs posted a win over D-I nationals qualifier Minnesota against whom McNamara had six points (3g, 3a).

"I can't think of a player more deserving of this award,” said Minn.-Duluth co-coach Ben Blaeser. “The amount of work Scott has put into his personal game is unmatched, and he put just as much work into improving our team and finding ways to challenge our players."

"Scott gave this team the confidence to go into any battle with an edge and fearlessness, and has given our young players a road map of what it takes to be the best they can be."

Added co-coach Alex McNamara: “No question Scott excelled on the field. He was a clear focal point for any team we faced this year. Scott could use strength or speed and be a passer or shooter depending on the matchup. His points and accolades against the best competition speak for themselves.

“However, any personal recognition was undesirable compared to a team win. Scott’s best attributes come to light for what he brought to the team away from games and at practice. Since coaches aren’t at practice during the week, Scott took ownership in guiding and pushing the team the entire year. Scott’s diligence and desire for the team’s and his teammates’ success is what makes him such a special player.”