POUGHKEEPSIE, New York – Men's Lacrosse announces that senior Matthew Selts will wear jersey number 34 for the upcoming season to honor the legacy of the late Eddie Coombs. The announcement was made prior to the start of practice earlier today. Eric Coombs, the father of Eddie Coombs, was also in attendance for the announcement.

Keeping Eddie Coombs' legacy alive, @Marist_MensLax kept to their annual tradition by naming senior captain Matt Selts to wear #34 for the entire season.#GoRedFoxes ?? pic.twitter.com/5jhk7TFJvv

— Marist Athletics (@MaristAthletics) January 16, 2019

 
The recipient of Eddie Coombs' no. 34 jersey each year is the Marist men's lacrosse senior who best represents the outstanding characteristics that Coombs showed every day: passion, determination, energy, and a great teammate and member of the community. Eddie passed away in a car accident in 2011 just before the start of his sophomore year at Marist and was a well-respected member of the college community by staff and students.
 
Selts has been a standout defensive player for the Red Foxes, playing in all 15 games last season. He finished last season tied for second on the team in ground balls with 29. Earlier this year, Selts was named a team captain.
 
The tradition dates back to the 2015 season, with current assistant coach Dave Scarcello being the first recipient. Past honorees include Joseph Radin '16, Jimmy Murphy '17 and Brian Corrigan '18.
 
Coombs' legacy lives on through the Edward Taylor Coombs Foundation, which honors student-athletes who exemplify Eddie's same strong character, provides outstanding scholar-athletes financial assistance to pursue their higher education goals so they can reach their full potential, and works with high school students around the issues of responsible decision making through seminars, forums, videos, and other education programs.
 
Marist opens up its season at Air Force on February 16.