NETANYA, ISRAEL — Ashkelon LC midfielder Bryan Rotarori was named Epoch Offensive Player of the Week and Ashdod LC defenseman Jonathan Rathauser was named EL AL Defensive Player of the Week for their performances in Week 1 of the Israel Premier Lacrosse League (IPLL).
Rotarori led Ashkelon with four goals in their opening night 9-8 win against Herzliya. With Herzliya leading, 2-0, Rotarori scored back-to-back goals to wrap up the first quarter with a 2-2 tie. He again scored back-to-back goals in the third quarter, turning a 5-4 deficit into a 6-5 lead for Ashkelon. Rotarori also participated in the Israel men’s national team tryouts earlier in the week.
Rathauser anchored an Ashdod defense that held Kiryat Gat to just six goals on Thursday. Kiryat Gat did not score until the 23rd minute, with Rathauser — a staple on the Israel men’s national team — leading the defensive effort. Rathauser also participated in the Israel men’s national team tryouts earlier in the week.
Ashkelon (1-0) travels to Be’er Sheva (1-0) on Monday, while Ashdod (1-0) visits Haifa (1-0) on Tuesday.