Blaze Riorden Bio
Blaze Riorden is an American professional lacrosse player who plays as a goaltender for the Carolina Chaos of the Premier Lacrosse League and as a forward for the Philadelphia Wings of the National Lacrosse League, captaining both teams. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalies of all time, having won three consecutive Oren Lyons Goalie of the Year awards and is the first goalie to receive this honor. Riorden is noted for his unique playing style that combines traditional goalkeeping techniques with innovative approaches.
Early Life and Background
Blaze Riorden was born on February 13, 1994, in Fairport, New York. He was raised in a family that had a passion for lacrosse, with his parents, Mike and Jeannie Riorden, being supportive of his athletic pursuits. Riorden began playing lacrosse at the age of four, initially as an attackman. However, after injuring his team’s goalie with a shot, he transitioned to the goalie position part-time during his childhood. He played both positions throughout his high school career at Fairport High School, where he earned three varsity letters in lacrosse and football. Riorden’s high school achievements included winning two Section V state championships. After high school, he committed to play lacrosse at the University at Albany, where he would have the opportunity to play in goal and contribute on offense.
Path to Lacrosse
At the University at Albany, Blaze Riorden started making a name for himself as a talented goaltender. He began his collegiate career by starting 18 games as a freshman, posting 13 wins, which was the second-most in program history. His performance earned him a spot on the America East All-Rookie Team and second-team all-league honors. During his sophomore year, Riorden’s skills continued to shine as he finished third in the nation in saves per game and led the America East in both saves and save percentage. He played a crucial role in Albany’s first NCAA Tournament win in seven years, making 13 saves in a first-round victory against Loyola. His junior season saw him leading the America East in save percentage and goals against average, and he made national headlines for scoring a coast-to-coast goal against Cornell in the NCAA Tournament. In his senior year, he set Albany’s career record for saves and was named a finalist for the Tewaaraton Award, solidifying his status as one of the top goalies in college lacrosse.
Blaze Riorden Career
Early Career (2016-2018)
Blaze Riorden was drafted 51st overall by the Rochester Rattlers in the 2016 Major League Lacrosse Draft. He primarily served as a backup to John Galloway during his first two seasons but saw increased playing time in his third season after Galloway’s participation in the 2018 World Lacrosse Championship. Riorden made his first career start in a 15-9 victory over the Chesapeake Bayhawks, where he recorded 16 saves. His performance in the MLL laid the groundwork for his future success in professional lacrosse.
Breakthrough (2019-Present)
Riorden’s breakthrough came when he joined the Premier Lacrosse League, being part of the original group of players assigned to Chaos Lacrosse Club. During his first season, he was named an All-Star and won the inaugural Oren Lyons Goalie of the Year Award. He continued to excel, winning the award again in the following season and helping lead Chaos to the Championship Game. In 2021, he was named a captain for the All-Star Game, although he could not participate due to injury. Riorden’s remarkable skills were further highlighted when he set the PLL single-game save record on June 6, 2025, making 25 saves in a win over the Denver Outlaws.
Notable Works and Milestones
Blaze Riorden is recognized for his impressive achievements, including being a three-time Oren Lyons Goalie of the Year award winner and a captain for both the Carolina Chaos and Philadelphia Wings. His unique playing style, which incorporates a Butterfly technique similar to hockey goaltenders, has set him apart in the sport. Riorden’s ability to create transition opportunities for his teammates showcases his versatility and skill as a player.
Blaze Riorden Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Blaze Riorden has received multiple nominations and accolades, particularly for his performances in the Premier Lacrosse League and Major League Lacrosse.
Blaze Riorden Awards Won
Blaze Riorden has won several prestigious awards, including the America East Defensive Player of the Year in 2016, and has been recognized as a three-time First Team All America East from 2014 to 2016. He is also the Albany all-time leader in saves with a total of 849.
Blaze Riorden Family
Blaze Riorden is the son of Mike and Jeannie Riorden. He has one brother, Connor. Details about his family life remain private, focusing more on his athletic career.
Personal Life
Blaze Riorden maintains a low profile regarding his personal life. His dedication to lacrosse and his commitment to his teams are evident in his leadership roles and achievements on the field.
