Jan. 30, 2007

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - Preseason All-American Andrew Dow (Hauppauge, N.Y.) has been selected by his teammates to serve as Navy's lacrosse captain this spring. Dow, who garnered Second-Team All-Patriot League kudos last spring as a member of the Mids' top-ranked scoring defense, is the first Navy close defenseman to serve as captain since Howie Meehan in 1998.

"Andrew was an overwhelming choice by his peers to serve as captain," said Navy head coach Richie Meade. "Usually, the vote is close, but this speaks volumes for the respect that his teammates have for him not only as a lacrosse player, but as a Midshipman. I've been impressed with his leadership over the last several months. He's had a steady career here and I look forward to seeing him lead this team while having an outstanding senior season."

Dow has been a starting member of Navy's defense that has led the country in scoring defense in each of the last two years. Last spring, the Mids' defensive unit surrendered just 5.47 goals per game and allowed double-digit goals only once during the season (in an 11-10 win by the Mids over arch rival Army). Ten of the 82 goals by Navy's opponents were scored via man-up opportunities, with the Mids surrendering just 4.80 goals a game when playing even strength. Additionally, Dow was a member of the 12th-ranked man-down defense that gave up just 10 goals on 40 attempts. Last season, the Mids gave up 32 goals in their first eight games, the fewest since the 1964 team allowed 28 goals in its first eight games. In the 68 years that Navy has played at least eight games in a season, the Mids have allowed 32 or fewer goals in the first eight games just seven times (2006, 1964, 1954, 1945, 1928 and 1920). Navy has held 20 of its last 49 opponents to five or fewer goals, and only six foes (Ohio State, Army, Syracuse in 2004, Georgetown, Virginia in 2005 and Army 2006) have managed to reach double figures.

The Mids open their season on Saturday with a scrimmage against defending National Champion Virginia beginning at 2:00 pm at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Admission is free, however, there is a $5 charge to park at the stadium. Fans are asked to enter the stadium through Gate 5 off Taylor Ave.