NLL Insider

Ryan Hurley

Gimme a chance, coach. That’s pretty much what any athlete wants and when that time comes, you had best show your worth because you know there’s a line behind you waiting for a chance. So after scoring 2 goals his freshman season at Cornell in 2007, Ryan Hurley got his chance, and he produced. He scored 46 goals in 2008, 45 in 2009 and 47 in 2010 while leading the Big Red to the NCAA semifinals in 2007 and the NCAA title game in 2009. The situation today isn’t much different as Hurley throws his hat into the National Lacrosse League ring, hoping a team out there calls his name on draft day to give him a chance.

At 6-3 and 205 pounds, this lefty has the frame to withstand the pounding of a box lacrosse season. He’s shown he knows where the cage is, but anyone can score goals when they’re in front of the crease. It’s what you do away from the crease, to create space and win possession, that often does more for an offense and Hurley brings that attitude. The Big Red’s co-captain of 2010 was the team’s 2009 winner of the Hard Hat, the award that goes to the team’s hardest working player.

The two-time All-Ivy League selection also is a two-time All-American and that 45-goal performance his junior year made him only the fifth player in Cornell history to card back-to-back season with 40 or more goals. Make no mistake, Cornell lacrosse has some history, so that’s lofty company to keep.

Scoring and hard work. It’s that combination that separates the great from the greatest, along with motivation and Hurley has that. He told The Cornell Daily Sun back in 2008 that he understands he’s not from a traditional hot-bed of the game. But that didn’t stop him from picking up preparation habits from the great players that came before him at Cornell and with 138 goals in his 3 seasons as a starter, he certainly proved he learned, and applied. And that’s about all any coach can ask for.

Ryan Hurley

Height: 6′3″
Weight: 205
Position: Attack
From: Eagan, Minnesota
College: Cornell University

What’s your greatest asset that will help you in the NLL? My size and hockey background.

Any indoor lacrosse experience? Limited indoor lacrosse experience, some growing up and some while playing in the offseason at Cornell.

A few words to describe your game? Physical dodger and good finisher inside.

What role or position can you see yourself playing for an NLL team? A lefty offensive threat.

What accomplishment in college are you most proud of? Playing in the 2009 national championship game and leading the team back to the Final Four my senior year.

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