Dillon James Ward is a distinguished Canadian professional lacrosse goaltender, currently showcasing his talents with the Colorado Mammoth in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) and the Waterdogs Lacrosse Club in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). His professional journey is marked by a series of impressive achievements that highlight his skills and dedication to the sport.
Ward began his career in junior lacrosse with the Orangeville Northmen Jr. A, where he played from 2008 to 2012. During this time, he helped lead the team to four provincial championships and three national championships, earning accolades such as Junior Goalie of the Year and Junior Player of the Year in 2010. His remarkable performance at the U19 Canadian Field Championships further solidified his reputation as a top-tier goaltender.
Transitioning to collegiate lacrosse, Ward played for the Bellarmine Knights from 2010 to 2013, where he excelled in NCAA Division I. He recorded a leading save percentage of .662 in 2013, earning a Tewaaraton Trophy nomination and being named an All-American. His contributions to the program were recognized when he was named Bellarmine’s player of the decade for men’s lacrosse in 2020.
In the professional arena, Ward’s impact has been profound. He was selected third overall in the 2013 NLL entry draft by the Colorado Mammoth, where he quickly established himself as a starter and was named Rookie of the Year. His accolades continued with a Goaltender of the Year award in 2017 and a pivotal role in leading the Mammoth to the NLL Championship in 2022, where he was named Finals MVP. Ward’s international success includes being named Outstanding Goalie and MVP at the 2014 FIL World Lacrosse Championship, further showcasing his elite status in the sport.