(Photos by Dave Adams)

Steve Austin enters the MCLA Hall of Fame as an outstanding player.

In just two years as a midfielder for Brigham Young, Austin made a huge impression on the Cougars program and the MCLA. After two seasons playing lacrosse at the US Military Academy at West Point, the Brewster, N.Y., product transferred to BYU for the 2000 and 2001 seasons.

The first team all-Patriot League selection at Army picked up right where he left off at BYU, earning MCLA First Team All-American honors during both his seasons. In 2000, Austin sparked the Cougars to a national championship in St. Louis, garnering Offensive Most Valuable Player accolades at the conclusion of the tournament.

“Steve is not only one of the best lacrosse players to have played in the MCLA, but he is also one of the most incredible human beings you will ever meet,” said BYU coach Matt Schneck. “His tenacity on the field is balanced by his kindness and humility off it.

“When Steve brought his lacrosse talents to BYU, he had an immediate impact and took everyone's game to another level. From all BYU lacrosse Cougars both past and present, I would like to congratulate Steve on his induction into the MCLA Hall of Fame.”

Austin was also a first team all-RMLL selection during his career in Provo along with being the conference Most Valuable Player. He was a captain for the Cougars his senior season, helping BYU advance to the national semifinals.

“What an honor it is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame,” said Austin. “Looking back on my time as an MCLA player, I am so grateful to the people that dedicated their time and effort to build an incredible league that allowed me to continue to play the sport that I love.

“Lacrosse and the teams I played on during those years molded me into a better person and helped teach me life lessons that still guide me today.”

Austin and the MCLA Hall of Fame Class of 2020 will be inducted during the 2021 MCLA National Championships presented by New Balance in Round Rock, Texas. Exact locations and times of the induction ceremony will be announced when they are established.