Three Virginia men's lacrosse players were selected in the 2011 Major League Lacrosse Draft held Friday night. Shamel Bratton was selected in the first round as the fourth overall pick, by the Boston Cannons. Rhamel Bratton went in the third round, 17th overall, to his hometown Long Island Lizards. Thirdly, goalkeeper Adam Ghitelman was selected in the eighth round, 45th overall, by the Denver Outlaws.
This was the first year the MLL held its draft in January -- before the start of the college season -- as opposed to June, a point of considerable controversy. A total of 34 Cavaliers have been drafted in the MLL Collegiate Draft over its 11 years of existence, including 13 first-round picks. Only Syracuse has more first round selections at 15.
Two-time USILA first-team All American Shamel Bratton had 24 goals and 17 assists last season, for a total of 41 points, fourth best on the team. His 69 career goals rank No. 9 all-time among UVa midfielders.
USILA second-team All American Rhamel Bratton finished 2010 with career highs in goals (23) and assists (8), while starting every game on the first midfield.
USILA third-team All American Ghitelman had been named MVP of the ACC Tournament, with a 38-6 career record inside the pipes. He ranked No. 7 in the nation last season with an 8.25 GAA and was No. 22 with a .548 save percentage.
The players will finish out their college senior season. The Cavaliers open their season on February 19 hosting Drexel.