Nick Mellen set to step out of comfort zone with Cannons

Former Syracuse defensive standout Nick Mellen, right, is eager to start a pro career with the Cannons. (Rich Barnes/Getty Images)

The No. 11 is not chosen when you are a member of the Syracuse University lacrosse team's defense. It is earned.

That’s why Nick Mellen was so honored when he was awarded the number this spring as a fifth-year senior, a number passed down to the team’s defensive leader.

The close defenseman was well aware of the No. 11’s history in the program, having gone to West Genesee High School about eight miles away in Camillus, N.Y., and having spent four years dedicated to the program – including a redshirt sophomore year due to injury – before he was named captain and bestowed the number as a senior.