Burke Quietly Guiding Dayton to Title Aspirations
By Dan Delagrange (CollegeLAX News Intern)
For three years, University of Dayton midfielder Zach Burke has helped captain the Flyers during their rise to MCLA prominence. With so much attention drawn to UD’s annually mile-long roster that has included several all-MCLA players, Burke’s consistent production and staunch leadership have been glossed over. The Northbrook, Ill. native discussed with CollegeLAX the Flyers’ upcoming season, the importance of winning a championship, rivalries and more.
CollegeLAX: Your team has, over the past three/four years, seen a sort of step-by-step rise to national prominence. What is it about this year’s Dayton squad that makes you think this is the year for a national championship?
Zach Burke: We no doubt have the most talented team we have ever had at UD. We had two key transfers at midfield, both from quality NCAA D-III schools, Roanoke and Lynchburg. We have the most talent we have ever had, but are not yet the best team we have had.
CollegeLAX: During your time at UD, you’ve been a very solid producer on both ends of the field that has gone relatively unnoticed in the shadows of other all-conference and all-MCLA players (Alex Urban, Alex Walter, Chris Jehling). Would you say this kind of consistent, yearly depth is what makes Dayton such a tough team to beat?
ZB: Like any good team, we have a lot of depth, with [several] players scoring 10-20 points in a season. It makes Dayton tough because players off the bench, like our second- and third-line middies, can compete with anyone. The “shadow” cast by our top point scorers help these other players to fly under the radar, play consistent lacrosse and help us win games.
CollegeLAX: What do you see as your team’s biggest obstacle/challenge this year? Is anything less than a national title a disappointment?
ZB: Putting all of the pieces together and becoming a team. I think all returners, especially seniors, can agree, the season and our UD career wouldn’t be a complete success without a title.
CollegeLAX: How did the fall season go?
ZB: Beating Lindenwood 10-9 was one of the best accomplishments I’ve been a part of while playing for UD; probably the most fun game I’ve ever played in. Wish we would have beaten [University of Cincinnati]; the OT loss to finish the fall was a killer.
CollegeLAX: Last season, your team played two very hard-fought, chippy contests against MCLA newcomer and national semifinalist, Davenport University. The Panthers are on your regular season schedule again this year (with a CCLA playoff meeting possible as well). Do you now view DU as your team’s primary rival? Is this game the one that you guys have circled on your calendar?
ZB: In our first meeting against DU, it became a rivalry. In my eyes, the best competitor in our division is our biggest rival, this season I think that team is DU. I can assure you everyone has this date memorized…the game will not disappoint.
CollegeLAX: What about the rest of the schedule? You’re facing a tough slate of games, including SCAD, St. John’s, Elon and Grand Valley State. Does one game jump out to you as tougher or more of a challenge than the others?
ZB: Playing St. John’s the day after Davenport will really make our team prove itself. It will be a tough game. The Southeastern [Lacrosse Conference] teams are always a challenge. I’m really excited to play Elon for the first time.
CollegeLAX: Included on the UD schedule this season is a scrimmage against CCLA D-I Michigan State. Do you see this exhibition as a measuring stick game for the Dayton program?
ZB: From what I read, MSU is the “sleeper” pick of the year by a couple MCLA analysts. Playing a D-I team, no matter who they are, is always exciting. I think a strong game and especially a win against the Spartans could help set the tone for a good spring, just as our Lindenwood win did in the fall.
CollegeLAX: How crucial has the play of sophomore goalie Ben Domyancic been for you guys? With junior keeper Alex Reynolds coming back from a knee injury this spring, is there a goaltending controversy in Dayton?
ZB: We got a great freshman all-Ohio goalie recruit this year. He and Ben split time in the fall. This situation really creates some competition in keep for us with AR coming back. It can only improve these guys.
CollegeLAX: What is the one attribute you feel your team holds over any other?
ZB: Depth this year more than ever: “Charlie’s army,” as our team has been called. I think our midfield is one of the best in the country.
CollegeLAX: Thanks for your time, Zach, and good luck to you and the Flyers in 2010!
