Hempstead, NY - While the Long Island Lizards find themselves tied for second in the league standings at the midpoint of the 2009 Major Lacrosse League season, Hofstra University alumni have been a big part of that success both on and off the field.

The Lizards, who are 4-2 on the season following their 15-14 victory over the Chicago Machine at Shuart Stadium last Friday, have eight Pride lacrosse alumni currently listed on their team roster including three who are seeing extensive playing time. Midfielders Blake Miller ('96), and Julian Watts ('07) and defender Brian Spallina ('00) are seeing regular playing time while midfielders Kevin Unterstein ('08), Anthony Muscarella ('09) and Doug Shanahan ('01) and defenders Nicky Polanco ('02) and John Orsen ('06) remain on the roster. Miller has tallied four goals in five contests, Watts has recorded one goal and two ground balls in six games, and Spallina has added 11 ground balls in six outings.

Off the field, Hofstra alumnus James Metzger, Chairman and CEO of The Whitmore Group, is one of 11 corporate partners of the Long Island Lizards. Metzger is a former Hofstra lacrosse All-American in 1980 and one of the Pride's most generous benefactors.

The Lizards, who are idle for the MLL All-Star Break, return to action on July 4 at the Washington Bayhawks before returning to Shuart Stadium on July 9 against the Boston Cannons.

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