February 4, 2010
Hangin' out with ... Paul Dawson
by Phil Shore/
If 2009 NLL MVP Dan Dawson is the face of the Boston Blazers, then his younger brother Paul is the hair. The "other Dawson" was originally drafted into the National Lacrosse League as a goalie, but has now made his mark as a top-flight defender. Despite the serious flow, Dawson has established himself as one of the toughest guys in the league on the field; he displays a softer side off the field, where he's a humorous guy with a big, charitable streak.
Q&A
How did you start playing lacrosse? "Because of Dan. My brother picked up a lacrosse stick so I decided I wanted to and we fell in love."
What was the transition from goalie to defender like? "At first it was pretty rough. Into my second season I started playing goalie. Four years later, after my first season pro up in San Jose, we were short defenders for a couple weeks in the summer. I said I'd give it a shot."
What was your best fight? "Last season in the home opener, versus Rory Smith. It was pretty even but I took it in the end. Both guys got some good punches in though."
What is with your hair? "I just wanted to grow my hair out ... We have a cancer game April 3rd and I'm going to cut my hair and give it to 'Locks for Love,' which makes wigs for cancer patients."
What shampoo or conditioner is your favorite to use? "Conditioner is a must. You have to leave it in for a bit. I'm a big fan of Herbal Essence and Fructis."
What's it like being "The Other Dawson?" "It's not bad, you get used to it. We're two totally different players and have always been in whatever sport. I try to learn as much as I can from him. You take your licks but it's an honor to be his brother. He's one of the best players in the game and I'm lucky enough to be eating dinner with him every night."
Pop culture
Dinner: "It would have to be a good chicken parm, homemade."
Junk Food: "Anything candy. I'm a big sucker for licorice."
Vacation Spot: "ìAnywhere hot. Mexico would probably be my favorite."
Musician/group: "Kings of Leon. I went to see them in concert this past winter and it was pretty awesome."
Song on iPod: "'Accidents' by Alexisonfire. I listen to it before a game and it always gets me going."
Actor/Actress: "Megan Fox. She's pretty easy on the eyes."
Equipment
Stick: Reebok 9k head, 7k Carbon Fuse shaft
Helmet: Reebok 10k
Gloves: Reebok
Pads: Reebok arm guards and fibers on top
Cleats: Reebok Bulldodges
