Dillon Ward

Dillon Ward Bio

Dillon James Ward is a Canadian professional lacrosse goaltender currently playing for the Colorado Mammoth in the National Lacrosse League and the Philadelphia Waterdogs in the Premier Lacrosse League. Born on March 28, 1991, in Orangeville, Ontario, Ward began his professional career in 2013 after being drafted third overall by the Mammoth. He gained recognition for his outstanding performances in both college lacrosse and professional leagues, earning accolades such as Rookie of the Year and All-World Team honors in international competition.

Early Life and Background

Dillon Ward was born in Orangeville, Ontario, to Kent, a minister with the United Church of Canada, and Patricia, a lawyer. He attended The Hill Academy in Vaughan, Ontario, where he began to develop his skills in lacrosse. After high school, he pursued a Communications degree at Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, where he continued to excel in lacrosse, setting numerous records during his college career.

Path to Lacrosse

Ward played for the Orangeville Northmen Junior A team from 2008 to 2012. During his time with the Northmen, the team reached the provincial finals five times, winning four provincial championships and three national championships, including the prestigious Minto Cup. His impressive performance earned him several accolades, including Junior Goalie of the Year and Junior Player of the Year in 2010. In 2013, he was selected fourth overall in the Major Series Lacrosse entry draft by the Kitchener-Waterloo Kodiaks, marking the beginning of his professional journey.

Dillon Ward Career

Early Career (2013-2014)

Dillon Ward started his professional career in 2013 when he was drafted third overall by the Colorado Mammoth in the National Lacrosse League. He played for the Mammoth during the 2014 season, quickly earning the role of starting goaltender. His outstanding performance led to him being named Rookie of the Year by Inside Lacrosse magazine. In addition, he was a runner-up for the NLL Rookie of the Year and was named to the NLL All-Rookie Team.

Breakthrough (2015-2022)

In 2016, Ward was named a second-team All-Pro, showcasing his skills as one of the top goaltenders in the league. His breakthrough moment came in 2017 when he won the Goaltender of the Year award and was named a first-team All-Pro. In 2018, he continued to impress, earning second-team All-Pro honors again. Ward’s leadership and skill helped lead the Mammoth to the NLL Championship in 2022, where he made a record 55 saves in the decisive game three, earning him the Finals MVP award.

Notable Works and Milestones

Dillon Ward’s signature work includes his performance in the 2014 World Lacrosse Championship, where he was named Outstanding Goalie and Most Valuable Player, becoming the first goalie to receive this honor. His accolades also include being named to the All-World Team and setting records during his time at Bellarmine University.

Dillon Ward Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Dillon Ward has received several nominations, including being named a runner-up for the NLL Rookie of the Year and earning All-Pro honors multiple times.

Dillon Ward Awards Won

Dillon Ward has won numerous awards, including the Rookie of the Year in the NLL, Goaltender of the Year, and the Finals MVP award during the NLL Championship.

Dillon Ward Family

Information regarding Dillon Ward’s family is limited, as he has chosen to keep his personal life private.

Personal Life

Dillon Ward’s personal life details are not widely publicized, and he remains focused on his professional career in lacrosse.