via the Launch web site  

Author’s Note: I first met Casey after his stint at Saint Andrew’s as he took over the North Broward Prep program.  It was an interesting thing for me as I was still early in my writing experience down here and I was going to meet a genuine legend; a legend I had watched for quite awhile (and rooted against one game per year from 1995 to 1998 to no avail).  I was not sure how it would go that first time but it turned out that he was very easygoing, at least before the game, and just like every coach down here who was glad that his kids were going to get featured for their efforts. As I got to know him more over the years of covering the Launch that personality never changed and never did the friendly interactions (even when I finally got the upper hand in 2013 over the Kraus-Simmons rivalry . . . look it up kids if you have no idea what I am talking about) change.  He’s grown to love this state and living here and I wish him and John all the best at Jacksonville and look forward to watching from the sidelines Saturday!

  The Florida Launch will play the Rochester Rattlers on Saturday, July 30 in the team’s home season finale. When the Launch take the field at FAU Stadium it will mark the end of an era as lacrosse legend Casey Powell will be playing in his final home game. Powell and the Launch look for the team’s second straight win as they hope to play spoiler to the Rattlers’ playoff aspirations. Florida is currently led by All-Stars Kieran McArdle’s 48 points and Connor Buczek’s five two-point goals is tied for first in the league. The Launch attack has featured several weapons this season with Lyle Thompson posting 18 assists, newcomer Owen Blye recording 25 goals, and rookie sensation Steve Pontrello tallying 14 points in just five appearances. On defense, the Launch have All-Star Tucker Durkin and fourth overall draft pick Matt Landis leading a defensive unit that has forced 66 turnovers this season. Goalie Austin Kaut has stood firm between the pipes for Florida as he has posted the league’s third best save percentage (.538). As for the opposition, the Rattlers are locked in a multi-team race for a playoff berth. With the Rochester’s postseason on the line, Florida looks to put the visitors out of contention. Rochester’s Jordan Wolf leads the team with 48 points as his team heads into the weekend’s action with a 6-5 record. Durkin and co. will be tasked with stopping an offense that prefers to shoot near the crease as they have scored only once from two-point range. In celebration of Powell’s final home game, the Launch will be honoring the legend with a commemorative cup giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at FAU Stadium. Also, aspecial game-worn jersey auction is being held from now until Thursday featuring jerseys of Casey Powell, Lyle Thompson, Kieran McArdle and more. All proceeds of the auction will go to the American Cancer Society. Faceoff for the game is set for 7:30p.m. and gates will open at 5:30p.m. Follow the Launch on Twitter @Florida_Launch for live updates of the action. For ticketing information, call 561-923-9067.