On a brisk, windy Spring day, Madison Radicals (1-1) fell to Minnesota Wind Chill (2-0) in Minnesota 22-20. While the defense was able to bring the score close, Madison’s offense was unable to create any sustained momentum against Minnesota’s defense.

Roster issues plagued Madison, as offensive handlers Jadon Scullion (unknown) and Tom ‘Animal’ Annen (back) were both sidelined. Ryan Tucker (illness) was also unable to attend. Luckily, Benjy Keren was able to attend last minute, but the absence was sorely felt.

The game began with trades. Minnesota began with the disc and both offenses were quick and efficient, despite the wind. After three points, Madison began making some key mistakes, giving up three straight points to bring the game to 5-1 Minnesota. While Madison’s offense-prime was able to finally right the ship with a score of their own, Madison would continue to make critical mistakes. For example, Madison’s handler core (Andrew Brown, Kevin Brown and Keren) would be able to work the disc midfield after a dozen or so throws, but their impatience would eventually cause them to take an ill-advised huck into the wind, which did not work out for Madison. Uncharacteristic drops and throwaways allowed Minnesota to easily score two more breaks. At the end of the first quarter, Minnesota lead 7-3.

Not much can be said about the second quarter either, as Madison continued to struggle. Despite generating several turnovers, the defensive line was unable to convert many of their chances, and the offense continued to struggle with no end in sight. Minnesota used their momentum to build up the lead, outscoring Madison 12-7 at the end of the half.

It wasn’t until the second half that Madison began to make some adjustments. With Ben Nelson and Thomas Coolidge coming over to the offensive line, Madison was able to move the disc much better, generating more opportunities and goals. However, Minnesota did not relent on offense, and Madison was still not perfect, as Minnesota held slightly increased their lead to 18-12.

A fired up Madison finally arrived in the fourth quarter. With a few big plays by players like Bill Everhart, Coolidge and Kevin Pettit-Scantling, Madison surged back against Minnesota. Coolidge was largely instrumental in these points, scoring for the offense and then throwing the goal for the defense.

After Madison and Minnesota traded a few more points each, Madison gave one last final push. A fired up defense came out and smothered Minnesota, scoring four straight breaks and bringing the score to 21-19. While it looked like it might be a storybook ending, Madison disappointed with another uncharacteristic drop. While they were able to get the buzzer beating score, the early deficit proved too much for them to overcome. 

KPS came out in a big way for Madison, playing in 28 points of the game, scoring two goals and getting three big d’s for Madison. More importantly, KPS was a constant presence on the field, missing a few layouts by mere inches but always keeping up the pressure and the intensity. He was also a source of encouragement off the field, keeping many players focused on the current point rather than dwell on the past.

Coolidge was also able to get a Callahan midway through the second quarter, the first for Madison in the 2017 campaign. Former UW-Badger Mason Marquis was also able to register his second d of the season, as well as score his first goal.

Going forward, Madison has a tough challenge if they wish to win the Midwest division this year. With the team likely facing some severe roster issues during key matchups this season, there’s also a question of motivation for the team. If the matchup with Minnesota was any indication, Madison’s overconfidence and lack of effort to begin the game was a game deciding factor.

Madison will next play at Breese Stevens field on May 6 at 6pm CST, opening their season at home against Chicago Wildfire (0-2).

While Minnesota Wind Chill (1-0) hasn’t defeated Madison Radicals (1-0) in a little over three years, don’t count them out as the two teams battle it out atop the Midwest Division.

While Minnesota returned 19 players from their 2016 roster, they also recruited 13 new members to their team. Nine of those players play for the USAU Club team Sub Zero, and all three captains of that team are on Minnesota’s roster. With possibly the most talented roster Minnesota has had in several years, Madison will have its hands full.

Madison will have several of its core players making their season debut this today against Minnesota. Included is fourth year veterans Tom ‘Animal’ Annen, Kevin Brown, Ben Nelson and Matt Weber, whose impact since the team’s creation has been invaluable. Proven veterans, all four make major impacts on both sides of the disc, and will help stabilize a roster that had difficulty facing off against Indianapolis (1-2) AlleyCats in their season debut.

With Animal, Jadon Scullion and Andrew Brown taking the field together for the first time in the 2017 season, one might say Madison has its best possible handler core on the field. In order to win, Madison will need these three members to move the disc between them in order to generate enough time for their cutters to get open. While Madison has many skilled cutters, they are likely to be under constant pressure from a hungry Minnesota defense, and the ability to stall for time will be key to Madison’s movement.

On the defensive line, Madison will likely need to apply considerable pressure to Minnesota if they want to generate turnovers. Use of strategic double teams and their patent zone defense will not be enough as Minnesota will capitalize on any of their mistakes. An aggressive defensive effort will be needed in order to generate turnovers, and smart but quick strikes will be key to Madison walking away with a victory.

AUDL.Tv will be streaming the game live as they face off in Minnesota at 6pm CST. There will be a viewing party in downtown Madison at The Brass Ring at 701 E. Washington Avenue.

Madison Radicals active roster:

1. #2 Andrew Meshnick
2. #4 Pat Shriwise
3. #6 Bill Everhart
4. #7 Tom ‘Animal’ Annen
5. #9 Joshua ‘Jdub’ Wilson
6. #10 David ‘Buddy’ Meinecke
7. #11 Andrew Brown
8. #14 Logan Pruess
9. #15 Matt Weber
10. #21 David Wiseman
11. #29 Nate Thibedeau
12. #32 Colin Camp
13. #40 Marquis Mason
14. #41 Victor Luo
15. #42 Chase Marty
16. #44 Jadon Scullion
17. #48 Thomas Coolidge
18. #68 Ben Nelson
19. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling
20. #92 Kevin Brown

Defending Midwest Champions Madison Radicals will begin their 2017 tour on the road at Indianapolis. Looking to extend their win streak against them to 13, Madison will be testing out a whole new look as they begin their campaign.

Madison will be starting the 2017 season without several key members of the defensive line. With founding members Scott Richgels and Mike Swain no longer on the roster, as well as star defensive standouts Abe Coffin and Jay Froude moving to 2016 AUDL Champions Dallas Roughnecks, Madison will need to redefine its defensive line going into the season.

Making his AUDL debut this weekend will be Chase Marty, a UW-Whitewater standout who impressed Madison’s coaches at tryouts. Marty will be joined by ex-Wisconsin Hodag member Sterling Knoche, as well as former UW-Madison Football recruit Marquis Mason.

With the closure of the MLU, former Boston Whitecaps defender Victor Luo will be joining Madison for the 2017 season. Bringing several years of experience, as well as familiarity with the Madison scene (he coaches the UW-Madison B team), Luo will bring some much needed talent to the defensive line.

After an injury cost him his 2015 season, Dan ‘Dirty’ Rowan will rejoin the team for the 2017 campaign. Having spent time with local club team Madison NOISE, Dirty brings more height and talent to a depleted defensive line.

While all-star defensive lineman Andrew Meshnick will be making the season opening trip, notably absent from the roster is Peter Graffy, Madison’s all time stat leader in d’s. Also missing is zone specialist Matt Weber, one of Madison’s biggest and most intimidating players.

Madison’s game vs Indianapolis will be streamed live at 3:30pm CST on AUDL.TV, the exclusive platform of the AUDL for the 2017 season.

Madison Radicals active roster:

1. #2 Andrew Meshnick
2. #4 Pat Shriwise
3. #6 Bill Everhart
4. #8 Benjy Keren
5. #9 Joshua ‘Jdub’ Wilson
6. #10 David ‘Buddy’ Meinecke
7. #11 Andrew Brown
8. #14 Logan Pruess
9. #18 Sterling Knoche
10. #21 David Wiseman
11. #23 Dan ‘Dirty’ Rowan
12. #25 Ryan Tucker
13. #29 Nate Thibedeau
14. #32 Colin Camp
15. #40 Marquis Mason
16. #41 Victor Luo
17. #42 Chase Marty
18. #44 Jadon Scullion
19. #48 Thomas Coolidge
20. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling

On January 14, Madison Radicals hosted their fifth annual late night tryouts. With over 70 players showing up for the event, Madison will look to replace some key members for the 2017 season.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Jay Froude (30g, 31a, 31d and 105 completions over 298 points in 12 games) signed with defending 2016 AUDL Champions Dallas Roughnecks. A standout defender on both Madison’s zone and man defense, Froude quickly impressed head coach Tim Debyl and was able to make an immediate impact for Madison, despite his limited gametime. Froude is best known to fans for his Championship IV Top 10 appearance, with a layout D against South Division Champions Raleigh Flyers.

With the departure of Froude, it is likely Madison will also be losing the services of 2016 rookie Abe Coffin (3g, 14a, 4d and 92 completions over 116 points in 6 games). While Coffin’s time for Madison was also extremely limited, he was a very effective d-line handler for Madison. On offense, Coffin was often a very surgical player, fitting in with the throwing style of the defensive line, but he also wasn’t afraid to make the big play either.

With plenty of star power still left, Madison will be looking to fill in the gaps with new talent. While the full roster is not yet released, Madison expects to continue to be competitive against divisional rivals Pittsburgh Thunderbirds, and will look to win the big cross-divisional home game against Dallas.

Update: due to injuries, the roster has been updated. With Scott Richgels and Mike Swain now out, the offense will be joined by Jadon Scullion, while the defense will receive Kyle Weigand.

Madison Radicals will take on Pittsburgh Thunderbirds on Saturday, July 23rd, at 6pm CST at Breese Stevens field. The winner will represent the Midwest Division at Championship Weekend 5 in Madison, WI.

Pittsburgh will be looking to avenge two regular season losses to Madison (22-18 and 23-16), while Madison will be looking to get back on track as they welcome back several core rookie players.

Abe Coffin (2G/12A/2D and 72 completions over 83 points in 4 games) did not participate in many games, but immediately made an impact on the defensive line. Fitting into both the man defense and the zone, Coffin applied pressure to opponents handlers and used his fast feat and accurate throws to help Madison break quickly on a turn.

Joining him on the defensive line will be Logan Pruess (12G/9A/11D/1Callahan and 113 completions over 124 in 7 games). Pruess is another amazing defender that has the ability to strike quickly on a turnover, and his throwing skills give Madison a dozen ways to strike at Pittsburgh.

Madison will be missing longtime offensive players Jadon Scullion (10G/15A/3D and 245 completions over 171 points in 12 games) and Nate Thibedeau (18G/12A/3D and 66 completions over 113 points in 8 games). While these two have been key centerpieces for Madison’s patient offense, longtime handler Tom ‘Animal’ Annen (4G/8A/3D and 214 completions over 139 points in 9 games) will be traveling to Madison for the game. Apart of the organization since its inception, Animal is perhaps the most important cog in Madison’s offense. While usually serving as a core handler, he has the ability to break away from his defender and take significant yardage gains, and his accurate throws allow for him to make quick work of any defensive line.

Madison will be looking to clinch their 4th straight Championship Weekend visit, while Pittsburgh will be fighting for their first appearance.

Madison Radicals active roster:

1. #1 Adam Drews
2. #2 Andrew Meshnick
3. #3 Seth Meyer
4. #4 Pat Shriwise
5. #5 Jay Froude
6. #6 Bill Everhart
7. #7 Tom ‘Animal’ Annen
8. #11 Andrew Brown
9. #13 Brian Hart
10. #14 Logan Pruess
11. #15 Matt Weber
12. #18 Kyle Weigand
13. #21 David Wiseman
14. #23 Abe Coffin
15. #25 Ryan Tucker
16. #26 Peter Graffy
17. #32 Colin Camp
18. #44 Jadon Scullion
19. #48 Thomas Coolidge
20. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling

Pittsburgh Thunderbirds active roster:

1. #01 Max Sheppard
2. #03 Pat Earles
3. #04 David Vatz
4. #05 Austin Engel
5. #06 Anson Reppermund
6. #07 Mark Fedorenko
7. #09 Tyler Kunsa
8. #12 Mitch Cihon
9. #13 Mike Ogren
10. #18 Carl Morgenstern
11. #21 Rob Dulabon
12. #23 Eddie Peters
13. #28 Ethan Beardsley
14. #31 Aaron Buss
15. #50 Jon DeAmicis
16. #55 Johnny Bansfields
17. #59 Aaron Watson
18. #66 Marcus Thaw
19. #70 Alex Thorne
20. #?? Dillon Tranquillo

 

Madison Radicals (14-0) completed the 3rd ever AUDL undefeated regular season on Sunday, defeating Indianapolis AlleyCats (8-6), knocking them out of the playoffs. While they are tied for 3rd place in the Midwest Division, Minnesota Wind Chill (8-6) has beaten them twice this season, and will take Indianapolis’ place in the playoffs.

On a scorching Sunday afternoon, Madison began the game by quickly converting an offensive point in under 20 seconds with only two throws. After that, the man defense took to the field, and a big d by Logan Pruess (1G/2A/1D and 29 completions in 21 points) lead to a Madison break. With two goals in under a minute, it looked like Madison was going to roll through a understaffed Indianapolis, but they had other plans.

After a pair of bad throws caused both teams to turn over the disc, Indianapolis was able to grind through the point and score their first of the game. With their defense once again taking the field, Indianapolis employed a poachy defense that forced Madison into a slower offense, and they were unable to haul in the goal. Indianapolis would then work the disc up the field and score, tying the game up at two apiece.

Madison’s offense-two line came out and immediately took a downwind shot, but was unable to come down with the disc. Indianapolis was unable to handle the wind on a turn though, and Madison would get another opportunity, with Adam Drews (1G/1A/1D and 26 completions over 8 points) making a downfield strike cut from the handler position.

After retaking the lead, Madison sent out it’s man defense to continue the pressure. A great skying d by Brian Hart (1G/1A/2D and 20 completions over 16 points) gave Madison back the disc, and some smooth offense later lead to another goal. Now up 4-2, Madison sent out it’s zone line to change the pace of the game for Indianapolis. After another big sky, this time by Peter Graffy (3G/4A/4D and 16 completions over 27 points), Madison worked the disc to Indianapolis’ endzone. A drop by Drews was immediately erased by a turfed disc, and a quick throw by Drews lead to another break.

Madison and Indianapolis would trade four very quick, uneventful points, both teams holding twice to make the score 7-4 Madison. During a marathon point lasting over 3 minutes, Madison’s Kyle Weigand (1A/1D and 8 completions over 10 points) laid out for the d, giving Madison a chance to break. While Madison worked the disc up the field quickly, Indianapolis did not give up. After an Indianapolis defender laid out into Andrew Meshnick (1A and 15 completions over 28 points), they were able to huck it to convert their offensive point.

Madison took a shot deep to try and extend their lead, but the disc sailed too far and Madison gave the disc back to Indianapolis. While it looked like Indianapolis would be unable to score, a clock error brought everyone back to the field after the quarter had ended, and a redo allowed Indianapolis to score, making it an 8-7 game. While Madison received a chance to extend their lead, a huck would sail out the back of the endzone.

Indianapolis began the second quarter on offense and would quickly convert in under 20 seconds. Madison’s offense responded just as quickly, making it a 9-8 game. After Madison’s zone line took to the field and got a big d, an unfortunate drop by Weigand would give the disc back to Indianapolis, who tied the game back up shortly after.

After trading points to make it 10-10, Madison made a crucial mistake, turfing the disc 10 yards outside of their endzone on the first pass. Indianapolis quickly turned this into a score, taking the lead 10-11. Madison would respond immediately, tying it up at 11’s.

The zone took to the field, and while Indianapolis worked the disc around for a minute and a half, Graffy was able to come down with the goal line d. After working the disc around for another minute, Madison finally took the shot deep and was able to retake the lead, 12-11. Indianapolis came out with a chance to tie it, but a throwaway gave Madison back the disc. 14 throws later and Madison extended their lead to two.

The next point was a marathon point, spanning over seven minutes of gameplay. Graffy attempted three different deep shots on the point, all of which sailed past their intended targetrs. However, a d by Drews and two more by Graffy allowed Madison to keep the game at 13-11 at the end of the half.

When the offense took to the field in the second half, Andrew Brown (1A and 20 completions over 13 points) immediately threw around the zone/poach d from Indianapolis, and Hart took advantage of the poach to shoot the disc 50 yards for a goal. After the 20 second goal, Madison sent out it’s zone defense and was immediately reward with a throwaway from Indianapolis. After some quick strike movement, Weigand floated the disc to Graffy for the quick break.

After a quick hold by Indianapolis made the game 15-12, Madison took to the field but immediately dropped the deep shot. While a d gave Madison back the disc, another throwaway gave Indianapolis a second shot. Taking advantage, they were able to bring the game back to within two points, 15-13.

The offense-two line took to the field and was able to convert in under a minute again, and Indianapolis responded with a goal of their own. While the original Madison offense was unable to complete another deep shot, they were able to get the d and eventually convert their point, 17-14.

Madison’s man defense would come out and pressure Indianapolis into another errant throw, and Graffy punched it in with a bladey forehand. After Indianapolis and Madison traded points, Indianapolis would get a buzzing beater play to end the third quarter, making the score 19-16.

Needing a win by more than four points, Madison sent out a mix of their best offensive and defensive players out to start the fourth quarter on defense. After a back-and-forth battle including several throwaways by both teams and a stall count, Madison would finally convert on the break three minutes later. Hoping to hold the lead, Madison sent out it’s zone line. An exhausted Indianapolis squad was unable to get around the big feet of the mark Matt Weber (2G/1D and 7 completions over 16 points). After working the disc to the goal line, Graffy rewarded Weber with the bookends, extending the lead to 21-16.

Indianapolis would not go quietly. Another marathon point ensued in which Madison was able to force two turnovers, and then called the timeout to put on the offensive line. A drop gave Indianapolis a chance to break, but Madison came up with a d to keep the point alive. A miscommunication gave the disc right back, however, and Indianapolis would finally punch it in on the fourth try.

The offense two was much more patient, working the disc down the field slowly and scoring. With the fourth quarter winding down, Madison brought out it’s man defense once again. After several d’s and several throwaways, Madison would finally convert on the break point, extending their lead to 6. A goal line d on the following point would end the game.

With the 23-17 victory, Madison not only won their 30th straight home game, they also took the #1 seed in the AUDL over Dallas Roughnecks (14-0) because of overall point differential. Madison has as +136 while Dallas has a +134.

Madison will use their bye week to host an exhibition against a team of Wisconsin College All-Stars. The game will be Wednesday night, 7/13, at 7pm at Breese Stevens field.

Wisconsin College All-Stars roster:

1. #00 Tyler Hebert, UW-Whitewater
2. #2 Logan Pruess, UW_Milwakee
3. #2 Branavan Yogarajah, UW-Madison
4. #4 Nick Ladas, UW-Madison
5. #5 Jeff Maskalunas, UW-Madison
6. #5 Evan Swiatek, Marquette
7. #6 Iam Hahn, UW-Madison
8. #7 Avery Johnson, UW-Madison
9. #7 Seth Weaver, Goshen College
10. #9 Joshua ‘Jdub’ Wilson, UW-Milwaukee
11. #10 Juan Acosta, UW-Platteville
12. #10Sam Hebert, UW-Madison
13. #12 Jay Kinzel, UW-Milwaukee
14. #13 Brandon ‘Muffin’ Malecek, UW-Madison
15. #17 Drew Chapman, UW-Milwaukee
16. #17 Tommy Gallagher, UW-Madison
17. #22 Aaron Speiss, UW-Madison
18. #23 Graeme Kernick, UW-Madison
19. #24 Eric Von Kampen, UW-Milwaukee
20. #25 Ross Barker, UW-Madison
21. #26 Zach Ohnesorge, UW-Platteville
22. #27 Rami Paust, UW-Madison
23. #37 Jan Szmanda, UW-Madison
24. #39 Joe Lindsay, Marquette
25. #41 Colin Sunde, UW-Madison
26. #57 Austin Reif, UW-MAdison

7/10/2016: With the Dallas Roughnecks (14-0) win over Raleigh Flyers (9-4), Madison must defeat Indianapolis AlleyCats (8-5) by 5 points in order to win the #1 seed in Championship Weekend.

Should Madison defeat Indianapolis, they will be the 4th team in AUDL history to have an undefeated regular season. Philadelphia Spinners (2012), Toronto Rush (2013) and Dallas Roughnecks (2016) are the 3 other teams to have achieved such a feat.

Indianapolis must win and Minnesota Wind Chill (8-5) must lose in order for Indianapolis to advance to the Midwest Division playoffs.

With Madison Radicals (13-0) having swept Chicago Wildfire (4-10) for the 2nd straight season, they turn their attention to Indianapolis AlleyCats (8-5) as they wrap up the season at home. As Indianapolis battles for a spot in the playoffs, Madison will be looking to extend their home win-streak to 30 straight games, defend their 1st place seed in the AUDL standings and achieve just the 4th undefeated regular season in AUDL history.

On Friday night, Madison was faced with not only a very determined Chicago squad, but also the legendary Lane Tech Stadium winds. From a strong crosswind to intermittent swirling gusts, both teams had a tough time reading the path of the disc. This lead to eight drops and 17 throwaways by Madison.

The game started poorly for Madison, as Andrew Brown (1G/3A and 25 completions over 14 points) made an unfortunate error on an upwind pass in his return to the field. Chicago capitalized on one throw, immediately earning the break. Madison sent out it’s offensive-two line to right the ship, but a miscue lead to a first throw turnover. Two throws later, Chicago held a two point lead in under a minute and a half.

With the original offense back out, Madison was able to move the disc fast thanks to handler movement by Brown and Adam Drews (1G and 26 completions in 13 points), leading to a deep shot around the Chicago defense. Finally on the board, Madison sent out its man defense, and thanks to handler pressure, Chicago gave up the disc on a mid-field throw. Bill Everhart (2G/2A/2D and 33 completions in 21 points) took over, working around the tired Chicago line with constant give-and-go throws. Everhart would earn his first assist and tie up the game at 2’s.

When the zone defense too the field for the first time, it looked as though Chicago would give up another break when they threw the disc away around midfield. However, a huck would sail out the back of the endzone, and despite a footblock by David ‘Buddy’ Meinecke (1G/1D and 6 completions in 12 points), Madison was unable to convert. Chicago would work the disc upwind and take back the lead, 3-2.

The first throw on the next point was another miscue, and Madison quickly gave up another break, 4-2 Chicago. The offense-two line was much more efficient on their second time out, and was able to bring down the score quickly. With the man defense up, Madison was able to get a run through d, but swirling winds took the disc out of their hands and Chicago was able to convert on their second chance.

Down 5-3, Madison’s offense came out and was able to work the disc up slowly, using 18 errorless passes to score. When the defense his the field, it looked like they would score quickly yet again as Everhart came down with a big d, but a throwaway by Drews turned it into a marathon point. After another big Madison d, they were able to score after five and a half minutes of playtime, tying the game up at fives. As the quarter came to an end, Madison’s Peter Graffy (2G/3A/4D and 21 completions in 26 points) was able to sky several Chicago players on the goal line, keeping the game tied.

Madison came out on defense to start the second quarter, and Chicago gave them a gift, throwing the disc away on the first throw. Three throws later, however, and Madison gave back the disc. Graffy got involved on the second throw, earning the d, but an uncharacteristic drop by Everhart gave Chicago yet another chance to score. They did not squander the opportunity this time, and were able to convert, taking the lead 6-5.

Madison’s offense came out swinging, working the disc up fast and taking a deep shot early. After an unfortunate drop by Madison, Chicago took the disc and immediately fired a huck, but were unable to score. Madison took over and worked the disc up the field slowly, and came down with the score 12 throws later.

Madison’s zone took to the field and capitalized on yet another Chicago throwaway, breaking two throws later and helping Madison to take the lead, 7-6. Chicago would convert on their next opportunity and, after a Drews drop off a bouncy Brown pass, Chicago would break and take back the lead, 8-7.

After the offense-two line quickly scored, Madison’s man defense came out and pressured Chicago’s handlers into a mistake, earning the break and recapturing the lead for Madison, 9-8.

Chicago came out with less than two mintues to play, and Madison’s Kyle Weigand (1G/2D and 6 completions in 18 points) came down with a very physical d. After quick movement downfield, Madison found themselves in the red zone, but an overthrown scoober by Everhart prevented Madison from extending their lead. Luckily, Madison was able to pressure Chicago’s offense enough to keep the score at 9-8 as the first half came to a close.

Out of half, the wind had started to die down and Madison walked the disc up in the usual fashion, scoring in under a minute. Chicago responded in kind, and then an unforced throwaway allowed Chicago to tie the game up at 10’s. Madison’s offense-two came out, but an unfortunate air bounce caused Weigand to drop the disc. On Madison’s doorstep, Weigand sprinted into the play and came down with a layout d, getting Madison back the disc. 15 throws later, Graffy put up the deep shot to Weigand again, and he was able to pull down the score, giving Madison back the lead.

As the wind returned, Madison sent its zone back out. Under pressure, Chicago’s handler core was unable to move the disc, and wound up throwing away the disc. Madison took a deep shot right away, but the disc sailed out of bounds and Chicago took back possession. However, they were still unable to work the disc against Madison’s zone, and Everhart used a quick cut to catch the score, extending the lead to 12-10.

Chicago again gave Madison the disc to start the next point, but another overthrown disc allowed Chicago to hold the point and slice the lead in half, 12-11. Madison’s offense took to the field and took another deep shot, but could not connect once again. An error by Chicago gave Madison back the disc in the red zone, and Brown threw a quick throw to bring the lead back to two, 13-11.

Chicago and Madison traded quick points, and Madison sent its zone line out. Despite fighting against the zone for nearly two and a half minutes, Graffy came down with a big d at the end of the third quarter, protection Madison’s two point lead.

To start the fourth, Madison sent out it’s man defense, and Chicago was unable to hold on onto the disc, dropping it in Madison’s red zone. Taking a timeout, Madison sent out it’s offensive line and quickly took care of business, 15-12. Looking to capitalize on the momentum, Madison’s Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling (2G/1A/2D and 5 completions in 20 points) laid out for a big d. After working the disc down the field, an unfortunate throwaway by Graffy allowed Chicago to score, 15-13 Madison.

Madison and Chicago then traded scores, but after an errant huck by Madison’s offense, they were able to take over the disc and work it up the entire field, cutting the lead down to one again, 16-15 Madison. The offense-two took to the field again and, despite an unfortunate drop by Drews, were able to convert on the opportunity thanks to a big footblock by Graffy on the goal line.

Madison and Chicago trade goals again, making the score 18-16, before Chicago threw into a poach d by Everhart. Working the disc up the field, Madison took extended the lead to 19-16. With only 30 seconds left in the game, Madison sent out it’s final defensive line as Chicago attempted an upwind huck to end the game. Madison’s Pat Shriwise (2A/1D and 17 completions in 16 points) was able to come down with the big d.

With Indianapolis coming to town tomorrow, Madison’s offense will need to improve upon their performance if they hope to extend their home win streak to 30. Indianapolis is on the verge of missing the Midwest Division playoffs for the second straight year, and will be bringing a smaller squad to Madison then usual.

Madison has several question marks of their own. Kevin Brown (10G/28A/8D/1 Callahan and 144 completions in 162 points over 10 games) is likely out for playoffs due to a leg injury. K. Brown has become a crucial part of Madison’s offensive line, being able to open space for other cutters by dragging multiple defenders, his speed and his dangerously accurate throws. On the defensive side, Seth Meyer (17G/9A/10D and 25 completions in 123 points over 7 games) has a less serious shoulder injury, but will not be seen this weekend. Meyer makes a huge impact for the defensive line, whether it be zone or man, and his quick strike ability on a turnover has made him one of Madison’s most dangerous defenders this season.

In Saturdays game, rookie Weigand was also pulled from the game when a collision with another player caused him to display concussion like symptoms, and while he is rostered for Sunday, his availability is unknown. On top of that, fellow rookie Logan Pruess (10G/7A/8D/1 Callahan and 74 completions in 92 points over 5 games) was scheduled to play Friday’s game, but did not show up for unknown reasons.

Madison Radicals active roster (Sunday 7/10):

1. #1 Adam Drews
2. #2 Andrew Meshnick
3. #4 Pat Shriwise
4. #6 Bill Everhart
5. #11 Andrew Brown
6. #12 Scott Richgels
7. #13 Brian Hart
8. #14 Logan Pruess
9. #15 Matt Weber
10. #17 Keith Garner
11. #18 Kyle Weigand
12. #21 David Wiseman
13. #26 Peter Graffy
14. #27 Mike Swain
15. #29 Nate Thibedeau
16. #32 Colin Camp
17. #44 Jadon Scullion
18. #48 Thomas Coolidge
19. #55 Kelsen Alexander
20. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling

Indianapolis AlleyCats active roster:

1. #1 Keenan Plew
2. #2 Rick Gross
3. #3 Cameron Brock
4. #5 Aaron Schwartz
5. #12 Colin Ringwood
6. #15 Chris Ginet
7. #21 Peter Carelton
8. #24 Jake Fella
9. #31 Mike Ng
10. #33 Dana Granholm
11. #34 Wes Groth
12. #37 Travis Carpenter
13. #51 Nate Page
14. #74 Collin McCartney
15. #78 Michael Ames

Madison Radicals (12-0) will take on Chicago Wildfire (4-9) after receiving a critical week off. As several players return from injuries, Madison will look to end the regular season strong as they bid for their first ever undefeated season.

After taking time off, Thomas Coolidge (8G/9A/10D and 90 completions over 141 points in 8 games) and Dave Wiseman (18G/19A/4D and 100 completions over 138 points in 9 games) will be returning to the field. Coolidge uses his speed and quick feet to completely shut down his opponents, and is extremely dangerous thanks to his quick thinking on a turn. Wiseman uses a combination of quick cuts and pinpoint throws to anchor the handler core, and his height and speed to dominate the downfield cut.

After receiving an injury to his throwing hand, Andrew Brown (1G/3A/3D and 126 completions over 57 points in 4 games) was limited to just 4 games. Despite only playing 4 games, Brown threw 53 more completions and caught 36 more discs than the average Madison player. With Browns return, Madison will look to stabilize an offensive line that has lost its identity the last few months as it’s struggled to convert on a consistent basis.

While Madison’s offense has been in flux over the last month, the defensive line has relied heavily on Peter Graffy (15G/24A/25D and  138 completions over 230 points in 8 games) and Andrew Meshnick (27G/27A/20D and 104 completions over 320 points in 11 games). Two of Madison’s strongest players, both often highlight both the zone and man defensive lines, and the offensive-2 line.

Madison takes on Chicago tonight at 7pm CST at Lane Tech Stadium.

Madison Radicals active roster:

1. #1 Adam Drews
2. #2 Andrew Meshnick
3. #4 Pat Shriwise
4. #6 Bill Everhart
5. #8 Benjy Keren
6. #10 David ‘Buddy’ Meinecke
7. #11 Andrew Brown
8. #13 Brian Hart
9. #14 Logan Pruess
10. #17 Keith Garner
11. #18 Kyle Weigand
12. #21 David Wiseman
13. #26 Peter Graffy
14. #27 Mike Swain
15. #29 Nate Thibedeau
16. #32 Colin Camp
17. #44 Jadon Scullion
18. #48 Thomas Coolidge
19. #55 Kelsen Alexander
20. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling

Chicago Wildfire active roster:

1. #2 Michael Shiel
2. #3 Mike Egan
3. #4 Alex Drilica-Wagner
4. #7 David Woods
5. #9 Charlie Furse
6. #10 Von Alanguilan
7. #11 Geoff Serednesky
8. #16 Yiding Hou
9. #18 Joe Young
10. #19 Jack Shey
11. #24 Michael Pardo
12. #25Brett Hidaka
13. #31 Danny Miller
14. #33 Dan Vockeroth
15. #37 Dan Williams
16. #42 Jimmy Sykora
17. #51 AJ Nelson
18. #63 Neal Phelps
19. #65 Percy Stogdon
20. #71 Adrian King

Madison Radicals (10-0) started their four game road trip against Minnesota Windchill (7-4) on the right foot, defeating Minnesota 25-16 in their last season meeting. A short handed Madison roster took on Minnesota in windy, wet conditions, and was able to capitalize on key mistakes to take away the win.

When Madison arrived at Minnesota’s new stadium, Blaine Sports Center Complex, there was a lightning delay as the rain poured onto the field. Luckily this was half an hour before game time, and after being allowed back onto the field and given some more time to warm up, Madison began the game only 15 minutes late.

With intermittent rain and gusty wind, Madison threw out their zone to start the game, and it immediately paid off as Minnesota threw an unforced error in 12 throws. A few quick strike throws later and Peter Graffy (3G/4A/6D and 17 completions over 33 points) caught the goal. Graffy lead the team in d’s, assists and points played, earning himself a +13 to his season ranking.

On the ensuing point, Minnesota came out and quickly converted, bringing out Madison’s offensive line. Madison only brought 7 o-line players on the trip, including the season debut of Nate Volkman (2015: 4A/2D and 97 completions over 59 points in 4 games). Unfortunately, his first point of the season did not go well, as Madison threw the disc into a Minnesota defender, and the turnover was quickly converted into a break, bringing Minnesota up 2-1.

Madison’s man defense came out on offense and was able to score within 4 throws, tying up the game. With the zone defense up, Minnesota once again threw an unforced turnover and Madison was able to convert on a backhand huck from Matt Weber (2A and 3 completions over 22 points).

Madison and Minnesota then traded points, but a big layout d from Joshua ‘Jdub’ Wilson (2A/1D and 4 completions over 16 points) on the Minnesota goal line allowed Madison to extend their lead by 2. On the following point, the man defense line finally got a d, but a throwaway near their own goal line prevented them from converting on the opportunity.

After a perfect offensive point for Madison, the zone hit the field once again. Despite getting a quick turn, an unforced throwaway and a drop kept giving Minnesota a chance to convert. Luckily, Minnesota gave the disc back 3 times and Madison was able to finally convert the break, leading Minnesota 7-4.

The man defense took the field once again, after the zone ran for almost 3 minutes, and a big d by Kyle Weigand (1G/1A/1D and 3 completions over 13 points) gave Madison a chance to break. Quick movement around the field and a perfect throw by Weigand gave Madison a 4 goal lead, 8-4. Minnesota had a chance to bring it within 3 to end the 1st, but a big d by Weber and then an interception by Graffy kept Madison up by 4.

Madison’s offense started the 2nd quarter, but an errant first throw gave Minnesota a chance at a break. While they were able to get the disc back, they were unable to complete a single pass and Minnesota broke, 8-5.

Madison’s 2nd o-line came out to swing back the momentum, but a throwaway gave Minnesota their 2nd chance to break. When Minnesota gave it back to Madison a minute later, Madison used their first timeout of the game to bring back their 1st o-line. After a huck fell short, Minnesota still couldn’t find the end zone, and Madison was able to eventually work the disc up for a score.

Madison’s zone line came back out and continued to pile on the scores. After almost two minutes of work, Minnesota gave up the disc on yet another unforced turnover and Madison converted seconds later. They stayed out and received another chance at a break right away, but were unable to pull down the score. Minnesota worked the disc to about midfield, but a big d by Andrew Meshnick (4G/2A/4D and 15 completions over 33 points) gave Madison another shot. Using their second timeout of the 1st half, they brought back out their first offensive line and were able to convert the break.

With Minnesota off balance, Madison continued to employ a mix of their man and zone defensive line, and scored 4 more breaks to end the first half. Madison was up 15-5 at half, and the game looked like it would be another blowout.

To start the 2nd half, Minnesota worked the disc up fast and were able to score in only 6 throws.Madison’s offense came out swinging for the fences, with Kevin Brown (3A and 6 completions over 8 points) taking a deep shot that flew past his intended receiver. After Minnesota gave the disc back to Madison, he would almost immediately take another one, but this one would fall short. Minnesota would take a deep shot of their own, but Brown and Ryan Tucker (2G/2D and 3 completions over 15 points) were able to sky the Minnesota players.

Unfortunately, Brown came down very hard on his ankle and was unable to continue the game. With Madison’s offensive-1 line short a player, Graffy, Meshnick and Bill Everhart (1D and 15 completions over 17 points) took turns filling into that spot.

Once Brown was helped off the field, Madison finished the marathon point with a score. Sadly, their luck would not continue, as Madison gave up the next 3 points to Minnesota, bringing the score to 16-9. While Madison was able to temporarily stop the bleeding thanks to strong defensive plays by Meshnick and Graffy, Madison wouldn’t be able to hold onto that momentum, as Minnesota came out to tack on 3 more points. Bringing the score to 17-12, Madison tacked on one more score before the end of the 3rd quarter after Graffy was able to pull down a huge huck.

In the 4th, Madison and Minnesota traded scores for the next 5 points, with Madison up 21-14. Despite scoring a flurry of breaks earlier, Minnesota was unable to clean up their careless mistakes, and made yet another one in the 4th, leading to a quick Madison break, 22-14. Madison would not be able to get another break, and both teams held the rest of the game for a 25-16 final score.

On the offensive line, Colin Camp (2G/2A and 15 completions over 15 points) helped to stabilize an offensive line that continued to struggle. Outside of an unforced drop, Camp was able to pressure Minnesota’s defense with continuous deep cuts, drawing multiple defenders. When he wasn’t running his defenders deep, he was able to make quick cuts and get short gain passes, keeping the Minnesota defense off their balance by attacking every side of the field.

With Madison missing 3 of it’s defensive handlers (Adam Drews, Abe Coffin and Logan Pruess), veteran handler Ben Nelson (2G/2A and 21 completions over 26 points) worked well with Everhart, moving the disc around quickly. Nelson was also able to blades and hammers with ease, despite the swirling winds and rain, which opened up the field for Madison.

With Minnesota behind them, Madison has almost earned the Midwest Division title for the 2016 season. With one more win (or a Pittsburgh Thunderbirds loss), Madison will secure their 3rd Midwest Division title and home field advantage in the Midwest playoffs. They also have a shot at earning the #1 seed in the Final Four in Madison (should they make it), but are currently behind Dallas Roughnecks (12-0) in point differential (113 t0 125).

Madison will look to secure their home field advantage when they take on Chicago Wildfire (4-8) on the road this weekend. For the first time in 3 season, Chicago will fail to make the playoffs. With many key players having departed their roster, Chicago is having a very rough year. The game will take place Saturday, 6/25 at 7pm CST.

After they face Chicago on Saturday, they will travel to Cincinnati Revolution (0-12) and face them on Sunday at 2pm CST.Madison will likely have a shortened roster for the second game, but will still want to win in order to keep pace with Dallas.

While several Madison veterans will be making their returns, Madison will be without offensive cutters Pat Shriwise, Dave Wiseman (Worlds) and Kevin Brown (ankle injury), as well as defensive stars Abe Coffin, Jay Froude, Matt Weber, Thomas Coolidge and Matt Weber.

However, Madison will welcome back 2 of its core handlers. On the offensive line, Tom ‘Animal’ Annen for the 2nd time this month, having missed the last 2 games. On the defensive line, Adam Drews will be playing in his first game since 5/27, and his first time on the defensive line since 4/30.

With Radicals Fan #6 not traveling to either game, there will be no game recap.

While rosters are not final, Madison’s active roster for the weekend:

1. #1 Adam Drews
2. #2 Andrew Meshnick
3. #3 Seth Meyer
4. #6 Bill Everhart
5. #7 Tom ‘Animal’ Annen
6. #10 David ‘Buddy’ Meinecke (Saturday only)
7. #13 Brian Hart
8. #14 Logan Pruess (Saturday only)
9. #15 Matt Weber (Possibly Sunday only)
10. #17 Keith Garner
11. #18 Kyle Weigand
12. #25 Ryan Tucker
13. #26 Peter Graffy
14. #27 Mike Swain (Saturday only)
15. #29 Nate Thibedeau
16. #32 Colin Camp (Saturday only)
17. #44 Jadon Scullion
18. #55 Kelsen Alexander
19. #68 Ben Nelson
20. #80 Kevin ‘KPS’ Pettit-Scantling

Madison Radicals (8-0) face a lot of uncertainty going into the second half of the season. Despite having already beaten the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds (6-3) twice, whom many consider their strongest rivals, an undefeated season is not assured.

With most of their home games over, Madison will spend four of their last six games on the road.

Madison must first face a hungry Detroit Mechanix (4-5) team that has seen its first victories in years. Having broken the AUDL’s longest losing streak, they have been able to find some rhythm as a team and beat Chicago Wildfire (3-6) for the first time in franchise history. Madison faces them at home on Saturday, June 11th.

After that, Madison hits the road for the remainder of June. They must first get through third place team Minnesota Wind Chill (6-3), a hungry team that has made major improvements between 2015 and 2016. And while Madison has beaten Minnesota pretty handily twice already this season at home (25-11 and 36-16), they have yet to face Minnesota on their home turf with a full roster.

When they next meet, Madison will have to contend with Ben Jaqt (2015: 20G/26A/13D over 165 points), who recently competed in the USAU College National Championships with Minnesota Grey Duck and won. With the college season behind him, he will join back up with Minnesota as they attempt to unseat Madison on the road.

After that, Madison must compete against Chicago and Cincinnati Revolution (0-11) on a double header road trip the weekend of June 25th and 26th. Despite Chicago’s record, the worst in franchise history, they held their own in Madison for three quarters, down by only one. While Madison’s defense was able to pull away in the fourth quarter, Chicago showed a lot of tenacity and proved that, if Madison doesn’t play its hardest, Chicago will beat them.

When they travel to Cincinnati, Madison will have to once again be careful. Despite having the worst record in the league, Madison gave up 23 points to Cincinnati when they visited in May, the most given up at any home game. And while Madison has not lost to Cincinnati in the last two seasons, they will not give up easily.

After that, Madison will end the season in July with another double header weekend, but this one will start with a Chicago away game on Friday, July 8th, and wrap up at home against Indianapolis AlleyCats (5-4) on Sunday,  July 10th. Indianapolis was left out of the playoffs last after falling just short, but after defeating Pittsburgh for the first time this season, they will be out for blood. Over the last three season, Indianapolis has never been able to defeat Madison, but has come awfully close several times. On top of that, this will be Madison’s 30th home game since their last defeat, and should Madison be riding a 29-straight home game win streak, Indianapolis will want more than anything to break it.

Madison will need to tap into their deep roster in order to keep their undefeated streak alive. Several of the key members to Madison’s offense have been injured and will be out for some time, while other players will be out for various personal reasons over the next few months.

Madison’s offensive line has struggled this season, and that can partially be attributed to them taking more risks on offense. With Kevin Brown moving to the offensive line and the addition of Ryan Tucker, Madison has more reliable deep options then it has had in the past as well as more reliable throwers. However, Madison has been missing one of it’s most important members for most of the season, which can also attribute to its lack of consistency.

Andrew Brown has been the primary handler on the Madison offense since its inception. In 2014 he missed only one game out of 16, and in 2015 he missed two out of 17. This all changed in 2016, as he’s missed four out of eight games already, and will miss at least two more due to injury and other obligations.

Fellow offensive handler Benjy Keren, who has only played in one game this season, will also be out for at least four more games and five of the next six. With cutter/handler hybrid Pat Shriwise also out with injury for at least four games, Madison’s offensive line is looking thin.

Normally when the offensive line has lost this many players, they pull cutters Scott Richgels and Thomas Coolidge back from the defensive line to take their places. However, after the home game against Detroit, both will be missing several games.

Madison made several big additions to the defensive line this year, and arguably the two biggest additions are Logan Pruess and Abe Coffin. Both bring speed, athleticism and great handler skills to the team, and working together they seem nearly unstoppable. Despite rarely playing together (Coffin is a member of USAU Club team Kansas City Prairie Fire, while Pruess wrapped up his senior year playing for Milwaukee’s College team BlackCat), they seem unstoppable when together.

Unfortunately, Madison will not see much more of Coffin, as he is supposed to miss five of the six remaining games. With Adam Drews out for at least two more weeks, Pruess will likely rely on a combination of Bill Everhart and Peter Graffy to handle with him.

Three big questions marks for Madison in the coming weeks will be Chris Wilen, Kelsen Alexander and Keith Garner. Having seen limited to no playing time yet this year, all three have the ability to make a big impact for Madison as they embark on the second half of their season.

Madison will try to keep its undefeated streak alive going into the playoffs. Being only a few wins away from clinching home field advantage in the playoffs, Madison will need to be at full strength come playoffs if they want to punch their ticket to Championship Weekend. Once there, the regular season standings will become very important as it determines match-ups in the final four.