John DeFazio Named USA Lacrosse D-III Men's Preseason Player of the Year

Salisbury defenseman John DeFazio is the USA Lacrosse Division III Men’s Preseason Player of the Year, USA Lacrosse Magazine announced Friday afternoon.

DeFazio, an eraser on defense, has more than earned the honor. He was the 2024 CLC Defensive Player of the Year and the 2024 USILA Iroquois National Outstanding Player of the Year after producing 99 ground balls and 54 caused turnovers.

He also tied his career high with six assists.

Continue below to see more about DeFazio and the other USA Lacrosse Division III Men’s Preseason Players of the Year.

PRESEASON ATTACKMAN OF THE YEAR

Jack Regnery, Tufts

Listed as a middie, Regnery played as a tip-of-the-spear attackman. He is about as unstoppable off the catch as any scorer in college lacrosse. Last season, he led the Jumbos with 113 points.

PRESEASON MIDFIELDER OF THE YEAR

Brice Bromwell, Salisbury

Bromwell is a clutch shooter who will let it fly from anywhere on the field. For the Gulls, he’s been a consistent part of an offense that runs on its opponent’s fear. Bromwell scored in every game he played last year save for one and finished with 85 points.

PRESEASON DEFENSEMAN OF THE YEAR

John DeFazio, Salisbury

Salisbury’s offense might be what wins games, but its defense is what keeps them in the top three every season. DeFazio is also our Player of the Year, as he is the most disruptive player returning to Division III in 2025.

PRESEASON SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR

Thomas Nelson, Kenyon

The big man for the Owls deserves every bit of this honor. He is the type of player who transcends numbers because he gives his team an edge in every game it plays. Faceoff men like Nelson are why other coaches want to get rid of the draw.

PRESEASON GOALIE OF THE YEAR

Joseph Perry, RPI

A massive part of RPI’s incredible run last year, Perry is a goaltender who does everything well. He has great size, fast hands and an ability to turn a save into a fast break.