Greg Gurenlian

Greg Gurenlian is a distinguished figure in the world of lacrosse, renowned for his exceptional skills as a faceoff specialist. His professional journey began when he was drafted by the Rochester Rattlers in the 2006 Major League Lacrosse (MLL) draft. Over the next decade, Gurenlian showcased his talent with several teams, including the San Francisco Dragons, Toronto Nationals, and Chicago Machine, ultimately spending his final eight seasons with the New York Lizards. His remarkable performance in 2015 set multiple MLL records, including most ground balls, faceoff wins, and highest faceoff percentage in a season, earning him the prestigious MLL MVP award and the Steinfeld Trophy for the championship win.

In addition to his MLL success, Gurenlian made a significant impact in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) after coming out of retirement in 2018 to join the Redwoods Lacrosse Club. His return to the field was met with enthusiasm, and he continued to demonstrate his expertise and leadership until his retirement in 2020. Gurenlian’s contributions to the sport extend beyond his playing career; he is the founder of The Face-off Academy, where he trains young athletes in the art of faceoffs, ensuring the next generation of players is equipped with the skills needed to excel.

Gurenlian’s international career is equally impressive, as he was a key member of Team USA, which clinched the gold medal at the 2018 World Lacrosse Championship in Israel. He holds the US record for the highest international faceoff percentage at a tournament, with an outstanding 81% success rate, further solidifying his status as a leading expert in the field.

Throughout his career, Gurenlian has been recognized for his contributions to lacrosse, making the MLL All-Pro team six times and being selected as an All-Star five times. His dedication to the sport, both on and off the field, has left an indelible mark on the lacrosse community, inspiring countless players and fans alike.