1.) Canada (Gold)- There is only one word to describe this team: dynasty. This is a team that has not lost since the tournament began. Even more impressive, they are just as successful in outdoor competition. Nations around the world should look to Canada as the benchmark of lacrosse greatness.
2.) Iroquois Nationals (Silver)- Once again, the Iroquois found themselves just short of winning it all. In the press conference after losing to Canada in the final game, their head coach simply stated they just have needed to get one more goal in order to get the elusive gold medal. This team has greatness in their blood and put on a great tournament. When it comes to hosting, they did everything perfectly and made it fun for spectators, media members, and players alike. Now, they just need to find a way to get over the hump which is Canada.
3.) USA (Bronze)- I was surprised that USA finished where they did. Throughout the tournament, this team constantly looked sloppy and struggled within their Blue Group competition. They lost twice to Iroquois and once to Canada, which was predicted by most. Against England, they escaped with a second half comeback. The only time they seemed dominant was when they faced the Czech Republic, Ireland, and in the Bronze game against Israel. This is a young team will grow better, but they need to really step up if they want to remain in the top division.
4.) Israel- When they competed in the first match of the entire tournament, I knew this team would be a dark horse. They surprised a lot of people by finishing in the top four in their first competition ever. Right now, the team is trying to get lacrosse growing in the nation of Israel with fundraising and building facilities for the sport. With this finish, it will only help the game grow in the nation.
5.) England- Honestly, the English got lucky they finished 5th. They lost every match except their final two against Australia and Ireland. Yet, they are able remain in the top group with the best teams. A little lucky to say the least.
6.) Ireland- This was another team I saw as a dark horse in the championships. They had some tremendous matches, including a thriller against Serbia on the first Saturday. I like this team because of their drive and ability to rough up other teams. Really, they were the enforcers of the competition. It was a shame to see them fizzle out against better competition towards the end of the tournament. However, this team has a good future ahead of them.
7.) Czech Republic- Most people saw this drop coming for this team. They were unable to keep up with the top teams in the Blue Group, only picking up a victory over the English. To make matters worse, they would lose to Israel and Ireland, which worked their way up from the bottom Green Group. They only salvaged a mid level ranking by taking down Australia on the final Saturday of competition. They will need to regroup and find a way back to the Blue Group in 2019.
8.) Australia- This team went from fire to ice. They started the competition looking like a team to beat, going 3-0 in their first few games. Then, they slipped with a loss to Israel, which would end up costing them in the long run. Even after beating Turkey and Serbia, they would end on a low with losses to England and Czech Republic. This team has great talent and can be a threat in the future, they just need to be able to stay consistent and not suffer huge losses at critical times.
9.) Finland- This team actually had a decent tournament, beating teams the likes of the Swiss, Turkey, and Germany. However, they were hurt by defeats in the hands of Israel and Australia. This team has the ability the climb the divisional ladder, they just have to learn at the critical points against better teams.
10.) Turkey- As one of the new comers, it was vital for Turkey to at least get some wins. They did just that, knocking off Switzerland twice, Germany, and Serbia. I, along with many others, knew they wouldn't be a big mover, but at least they showed they are growing as a lacrosse nation.
11.) Germany- Another new face, Germany had an okay showing. They're biggest win was an early victory over Israel, along with wins over Switzerland and Serbia. Still a lot of growing to do,
12.) Serbia- This team is tough as nails. Not an ideal finish, but Serbia got wins over Switzerland, Germany, and Turkey while also giving Ireland a huge run for the money. I predict they may be a dark horse for future competitions.
13.) Switzerland- A hard welcome to the WILC. They failed to pick up a win. Much improvement needed.
The Big Review: The 2015 World Indoor Lacrosse Championship was a huge success for the Onondaga Nation and Syracuse. Thousands of people flooded to the area to watch the best competition the sport of lacrosse had to offer all ten days of the event. All of the volunteers and event organizers were respectful and helpful. The passion of the game was seen in every aspect, from the games to the village outside the Onondaga Arena. The Opening Ceremony was beautiful and really expressed the tradition and origins of lacrosse through music and dance. To wrap it up before I ramble any further, this event was extraordinary. Congratulations to the Onondaga Nation, Iroquois, and city of Syracuse on a job well done.
Thanks/Credits:
wilc2015.com