Denver Lacrosse All-American Zach Miller Out For 2017.

Inside Lacrosse reports that Denver’s Zach Miller “is not currently enrolled nor is he practicing with the team,” per Pioneers head coach, Bill Tierney.

"Zach has decided to take some time away from school," Tierney says. "We are obviously disappointed in his decision, but respect his right to make it and hope that everything works out for him."

Tierney hinted that being closer to his home and loved ones played a part in Miller’s decision.

"Obviously, being closer to his daughter, Annamae, will make him happier, as the rigors of school and missing her eventually took their toll," Tierney says. "I feel comfortable in knowing that we provided Zach with the financial, coaching, mentoring and academic support necessary for him to succeed in college and am thankful for having had him on our team for three years." .... "Zach’s teammates fans, and coaches will miss him, but his personal and academic circumstances didn’t allow him to continue the process in his final year. We wish Zach and Annamae much good fortune in the future."

This is a very significant loss for the Pioneers especially with their first scrimmage of 2017 versus Hopkins less than two weeks away. Miller has been an integral part of Denver’s success the last three seasons. The Pioneers have a deep bench but the loss of Miller is a serious blow to a squad ranked 3rd & 1st in the USILA & Inside Lacrosse Preseason Polls, respectively.

Miller scored 91 goals and had 77 assists in his three years at Denver and was a 1st Team USILA All-American last season. Miller’s ability to play at Atack and Midfield made him extremely difficult to defend. He was an instant success at Denver and his creative style helped the Pios reach two Final Fours and the 2015 National Championship (Ed. Note: In Philadelphia!).

Miller who grew up on the Allegany Reservation in Steamburg, New York always said he played the game for the pleasure of the creator, who presented the sport as a medicine game meant for healing people. His great play brought much joy to all lacrosse fans as he was a very talented player for the Pioneers. It’ll be interesting to see how Denver regroups from this rather major development.