Mitch de Snoo is a Canadian professional lacrosse player making waves in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) as a key defender for the Toronto Rock and competing in Major Series Lacrosse (MSL) with the Oakville Rock. Hailing from Oshawa, Ontario, de Snoo’s athletic journey began at Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School, where he showcased his talents in both lacrosse and ice hockey. His junior lacrosse career took flight with the Clarington Green Gaels and the Whitby Warriors, where he played a pivotal role in winning the prestigious Minto Cup in 2013, establishing himself as a formidable player early on.
De Snoo’s professional journey began when he was drafted in the second round (13th overall) of the 2015 NLL Entry Draft by the Calgary Roughnecks. His skills quickly caught the attention of the league, leading to a trade to the Buffalo Bandits in December 2016. After honing his craft with the Bandits, he made a significant move to the Toronto Rock on July 6, 2020. This transfer marked a new chapter in his career, as he continued to elevate his game and contribute to his team’s success on the field.
His performance has not gone unnoticed; de Snoo was named the Defensive Player of the Year for the NLL’s 2021–2022 season, a testament to his exceptional defensive prowess and leadership. As the 2023 NLL season approached, Inside Lacrosse recognized him as the #2 best defender in the league, further solidifying his status as one of the premier talents in professional lacrosse. De Snoo’s ability to read the game and disrupt opposing offenses has made him an invaluable asset to the Toronto Rock.
Beyond his accomplishments on the lacrosse field, de Snoo is equally committed to his academic pursuits. He earned a master’s degree in laboratory medicine and pathobiology from the University of Toronto, where he conducted research into genetic forms of Parkinson’s disease. Currently, he is pursuing a medical degree at the same institution, demonstrating his dedication to both the sport of lacrosse and the field of medicine. Mitch de Snoo’s journey exemplifies the balance of athletic excellence and academic achievement, making him a role model for aspiring athletes and medical professionals alike.